Bid left Thunderstruck

A TURF war has broken out in the BBL with Sydney Thunder officials “surprised and disappointed’’ by this week’s bid proposal from Canberra.

The Thunder have spent thousands of dollars on developing the game at the grassroots in the region, and will take an official BBL game to Manuka Oval on January 24.

Thunder boss Lee Germon said Cricket ACT were better putting effort into promoting the Thunder, not ‘’something that might never happen’’.

The millionaire businessman behind Canberra’s bid, Mark McConnell, said they had always supported the Thunder, and growing the BBL would only benefit the eight existing franchises.

Germon only learned of Canberra’s announcement 24 hours before Queanbeyan’s favourite son and former Test vice-captain was unveiled as the bid’s official ambassador.

“In my view it’s surprising and disappointing, particularly around the timing of the announcement,’’ he said.

“This won’t change our commitment to Canberra and the surrounding regions.”