Star West Indies all-rounder Andre Russell is set to make his Big Bash League (BBL) return when he comes out for Melbourne Stars later today against Sydney Thunder at the MCG. However, he needs to follow certain restrictions imposed by Cricket Australia to minimise the risk of players and teammates getting affected by COVID-19,
Russell will have to enter the MCG through a different gate, use a different lift, and set up in dressing rooms. At the times of warm-ups, he’ll have to stay at least two meters away from the players and support staff. His dugout will also be a different one than the rest of his teammates.
If you're chasing a crowd catch, your best chance could be at the MCG tonight courtesy of @Russell12A 🙌 #BBL11 pic.twitter.com/lFI15bYJFF
— KFC Big Bash League (@BBL) December 10, 2021
Andre Russell can’t get involved in high fives after getting wickets and a separate microphone will be arranged for him during post-match interviews. On leaving the ground, Russell will have to stay away from his teammates and will rejoin them after seven days of quarantine.
Melbourne Stars looking for Russell magic to bounce back
The Stars led by ace all-rounder Glenn Maxwell suffered a heavy defeat in their campaign opener against Sydney Thunder. Chasing 214 runs, the Stars were bowled out for 61 runs last week, losing the tie by 152 runs.
They will largely rely on Andre Russell to deliver the good and carry the form from the Abu Dhabi T10 League. Meanwhile, Stars’ head coach David Hussey was delighted to have Russell in the mix for the T20 championship.
“To have someone of Andre’s quality play for the Melbourne Stars is a huge signing for our club. We want our Stars family to watch the best players in action at the MCG and Andre is world class. I can’t wait to work with him in the time that he’s here and look forward to his debut on Friday night,” Hussey was quoted as saying.
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