Sydney Thunder skipper Rachael Haynes thrilled to begin their WBBL06 campaign

Speaking ahead of the season's launch, she said, "I think it's been a pretty big build-up, particularly for our domestic players - they've had a long pre-season. So, it's great we've got some cricket to look forward to, and even more so having our internationals here as well."

The opening match for the Thunder would be the city derby where they take on the Sydney Sixers. Haynes said that they are looking forward to the match. "It's a pretty even contest over the years, so can't wait to get out there."

Haynes added that the experience of playing the international series before the WBBL, where the teams were confined to a bubble and had to stick to strict protocols, would stand the players in good stead.

"So, in some respects, some of us know what we're in for. But it's really nice to get in the hub and see some familiar faces, and some people we haven't seen for a while."

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The 33-year-old believes that the addition of England captain Heather Knight and Tammy Beaumont is crucial in terms of bringing in some valuable experience to a relatively young squad. "We've got a really young Thunder group, but they're exciting. So it's really nice to have some senior players around to complement that. And looking forward to see both in green."

"They've completed their quarantine, which is nice. I think they will train today separate from our team, and then we'll have a hit out together before our opening game."

Haynes felt that former Brisbane Heat player Sammy-Jo Johnson has been a breath of fresh air in their squad. "She's obviously a really skilful player as well. So, we're looking forward to her not only bowling but hitting some big bombs with the bat as well."

She said that their head coach Trevor Griffin and the support staff would be joining them shortly in the bubble after completing their quarantine. "They've obviously had a pretty tough few days of quarantine, but we're really grateful that they've come out and now we're all looking forward to coming together in the hub," she concluded.