NSW Premier Cricket: UNSW, Sixers gun Daniel Christian in surprise return
He hasn’t played for his old club in more than a decade but now this loyal T20 gun is making an unexpected return to Premier Cricket this weekend.
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It’s been more than a decade since T20 specialist and Sydney Sixers gun Daniel Christian turned out for UNSW but now he’s making an unexpected return to the club who put their faith in him as a 14-year-old.
Ongoing coronavirus restriction in Victoria have proved a bonus for UNSW who will have Christian make his 2020 Premier Cicket debut in their double-header against UTS North Sydney and Gordon this weekend.
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“I’m actually looking forward to it,’’ said Christian, flying to Sydney from Perth on Wednesday where he was quarantining for two weeks after living and playing with Nottinghamshire in the Vitality Blast series in the UK this year.
“I went to high school in Campbelltown as a kid and tried out for their Green Shield team but didn't get picked by the Ghosts.
“The same season UNSW entered the comp for the first time, got in touch and I played for them.
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“I was with the club for 10 years but 2007/2008 was my last season. I’ve stayed connected with the club through friends.’’
Christian’s first season for UNSW was back in 1997-98 and during his 10 seasons he took 269 wickets and made 5605 runs across nearly 200 games.
Christian, who grew up playing rugby league in winters and cricket in summer in Narrandera and has played for multiple T20 clubs across the globe, said he opted to come to Sydney to play due to restrictions in Melbourne.
“It’s (Premier Cricket) is better than just training, being able to get a hit and a bowl and hopefully help them win some games.’’
Christian said there is potential he could be playing NSW Premier Cricket for around a month prior to joining the Sydney Sixers in preparation for the BBL season.
“It all depends what happens with BBL hubs and training camps,’’ he said.
“I’m really looking forward to it.’’
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