HURRICANES SHOWDOWN
Bring it on, says Paine
TIM Paine, the wicketkeeping find of the summer for the Australian Test team, is determined to put the heat on the Perth Scorchers in their BBL semifinal at Optus Stadium tonight.
Having played at Perth’s new $1.5 million colosseum for Australia in the ODI series against England at the weekend, Paine (pictured right) has delivered first-hand “intel” to his Hurricanes teammates leading into the game.
It will be Paine’s first Big Bash appearance of the summer, coming into the side in time to replace big-hitting opener D’Arcy Short, who is on Aussie T20 duties.
The 33-year-old former Canes captain is in no doubt the men in purple can get the job done against the defending champion.
“Absolutely we can,” Paine said. “We are as dangerous as any side in this competition.
“The boys are very excited and, at the same time, there’s an air of belief that we can beat the Scorchers.”
Paine watched the highs and lows of the Canes’ season.
“At times we’ve played some really good cricket and at times so not so good cricket,” he said. “It has been on the back of Jofra Archer and D’Arcy Short doing so well and we’ve also had guys step up for cameos in between.
“Hopefully, that continues tomorrow and we get guys who can chip in, play their role. That’s how you beat the Perth Scorchers.”
The Hurricanes achieved one goal.
“We set out at the start of the tournament to be part of the semi-finals,” Paine said.
“We’ve ticked that box and the tournament stars again.”
He has only good things to say about Perth’s new stadium. “I love it,” he said. “I got the opportunity to play here the other night. It’s amazing.
“It’s like a small, modern MCG. The crowd was great. I don’t think they will be as positive towards us this time.”