In a historic first the Sydney Sixers will be led by an Indigenous captain for the club's home WBBL First Nations Round fixture on Thursday.
Muruwari woman Ash Gardner will lead the Sixers, whose squad also feature the likes of Palawa wicketkeeper-batter Emma Manix-Geeves, as they host the Melbourne Stars at North Sydney Oval.
Gardner became the first Indigenous captain in the history of both the Sixers and in the WBBL after she took over from inaugural captain Ellyse Perry before the start of the current Women's Big Bash Season.
The 28-year-old, who has been touted as a potential future Australian captain, started the WBBL season in scintillation form with the ball after taking 5/15 against the Perth Scorchers earlier this month.
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Sydney Sixers General Manager, Rachael Haynes, said the club was looking forward to hosting such an important round on the WBBL calendar.
"First Nations Round remains a highlight of our season and provides a valuable opportunity for us to come together as a club and as a broader community.
"I encourage all fans and members to attend our match against the Melbourne Stars to celebrate not only the game of cricket, but also First Nations Round and the significant contributions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples to our great game."
The Sixers will take will take the field wearing a playing kit designed by award-winning Wiradjuri artist Lua Pellegrini.
Pellegrini's artwork reflects the deep importance of the ocean across the lands of the Sixers' three home grounds - the SCG on Gadigal Country, North Sydney Oval on Cammeraygal Country, and Coffs International Stadium on Gumbaynggirr Country.
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"The 'U' shapes symbolise people gathering near the water, a significant aspect of Country for these communities and a site of connection," Pellegrini said of her design.
"The ocean and surrounding waterways, including estuaries, have long been vital food sources for these communities.
"At the heart of the design, three circles represent the Sixers' home grounds, each surrounded by the Sixers community who support and uplift our players."
In addition to the on-field contest, the fixture will feature smoking and Welcome to Country ceremonies, live dance performances and Indigenous designs and language used throughout North Sydney Oval.
The Sydney Sixers face the Melbourne Stars on Thursday 20 November from 7:10pm at North Sydney Oval.
Tickets are available online.
