SUNS SAY HI SHANGHAI
ARRIVE IN CHINA FOR CLASH
ENDORSEMENTS don’t come much greater than Gary Ablett’s who says he’s thankful for the chance to tick an item off his bucket list in China this week.
The dual Brownlow medallists’ list of achievements rival any to have played the game and he would love to add the yet-to-be named medal as the best on ground in the Shanghai Cup to his trophy cabinet.
Gold Coast players were given permission to bring family to China with them and then take time off next week to explore the country.
Ablett turns 33 on Saturday and has a large touring group including his wife Jordan, mother Sue and brother Nathan with him.
They plan to extend their trip to walk a section of the Great Wall of China after the game, something Ablett says he has always wanted to experience.
Ablett, the former Suns skipper who could perhaps be in the final year of his glittering career, said the trip to China was another great experience he was thankful for.
“For us it is fantastic to showcase our club and the game of footy and for me personally it is just another great opportunity provided by football,’’ he said.
“China is a country I have always wanted to visit and after the game I’m looking forward to spending a few days with the family experiencing China.
“Obviously the priority is to get the four points and that would be a great way to celebrate my birthday and Mother’s Day.’’
Suns coach Rodney Eade said players were encouraged to make the most of the experience.
“We spoke about it if players wanted to bring some family or bring their partners over there is no drama at all,’’ he said. “I think half a dozen of them are staying on, I think a few are going to see the Great Wall of China.
“But the main focus is to win a game of football.’’