David Warner has reacted to a surprising comment from rival Big Bash skipper Moises Henriques ahead of the all-Sydney showdown on December 21.
The former Test opener will lead the Thunder this season after having his leadership ban overturned by Cricket Australia following the 2018 ball-tampering incident.
But it would be Henriques who first lit the fuse at a press conference on Wednesday when he was asked about the looming clash at Sydney Showground.
"That's just an easy two points for us normally, so I haven't paid that one too much attention," the long-time Sixers captain said.
Moises Henriques of the Sixers celebrates dismissing Chris Lynn of the Strikers during the BBL match between Sydney Sixers and Adelaide Strikers at Sydney Cricket Ground, on December 22, 2023, in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Cameron Spencer/Getty Images)Â Getty
"We'll see how we go, but it means a lot for us and a lot of our guys obviously train together for the majority of the year.
"It gives us a whole heap of bragging rights every single time we get a win. I do think they are a good squad and I expect them to challenge the finals.
"Being good in those games is going to be a huge part of whether we have success."
It's no secret the Sixers have had the wood over their cross-town rivals for the large majority of the competition's history, winning three titles to the Thunder's one.
Warner – never one to back down from a challenge – was taken aback by Henriques' cheeky comment and said he is looking forward to the fixture.
"Oh, they've already got two points? If that's the way they want to play," he said.
Moises Henriques took a cheeky shot at the Sydney Thunder. Nine
"If they want to bring cockiness to it, they've got to back it up.
"It's a great opportunity for us and our fans to come out and see a great game. It's always a good contest and we know they've had the upper edge a lot of the time.
"They are a well-balanced team, they have managed to keep all their players. On their home turf they are always a challenge… it's upon us to do that here."
The 38-year-old partnered Sam Konstas at the top of the order in their first game, but the young gun is expected to be called into the Test squad for Boxing Day.
Cameron Bancroft will likely slot into the opening role, with Jason Sangha in line for a recall for the Thunder.