Sydney Thunder is bringing the world’s best women’s cricket talent to Drummoyne Oval on 17 November for a day brimming with cricket, culture, and community spirit. The spotlight will be on an exciting WBBL doubleheader that kicks off with Brisbane Heat facing Melbourne Stars, followed by the Sydney Smash between Thunder and their long-time rivals, the Sydney Sixers. Fans can expect standout performances from cricket icons Chamari Athapaththu and Phoebe Litchfield for Thunder, while Sixers legends Ellyse Perry and Alyssa Healy are set to dazzle in the much-anticipated showdown.
Adding to the thrill of top-tier cricket, Thunder’s Cricket & Culture Festival at Taplin Park will offer an afternoon of South Asian cultural experiences. From Bollywood dance classes to Bhangra dancers, henna art, and vibrant food stalls, the event caters to cricket enthusiasts and newcomers alike. There’s also an interactive skills area, rock climbing, live DJ, and a rare chance to see the Women’s T20 World Cup Trophy up close.
The festival not only highlights the game but celebrates the strong bond Thunder has with Western Sydney’s diverse communities, especially the South Asian diaspora. Chamari Athapaththu, a force on the field and last season’s WBBL player of the tournament, expressed her excitement: “Sydney Thunder has deep roots in Western Sydney, and we share a unique connection with the South Asian community here. I hope everyone can join us for the festival and catch some thrilling cricket action.”
For Athapaththu’s dedicated fans, a special “Chamari Bay” has been set up at Drummoyne and again at the SCG on 10 November, allowing attendees to secure discounted tickets and enjoy a dedicated viewing area. Meanwhile, Indian superstars Deepti Sharma, Yastika Bhatia, Jemimah Rodrigues, and Shikha Pandey will be signing autographs and snapping selfies with fans following their game, offering a memorable experience for attendees.
The Cricket & Culture Festival is free to attend, with WBBL match tickets available for purchase. Junior fans can attend the matches for free, and families can enjoy the day together with affordable ticket options. With the presence of cricket’s elite and an array of family-friendly activities, the day promises something for everyone—cricket buffs, cultural enthusiasts, and casual spectators.
Support independent community journalism. Support The Indian Sun.
Follow The Indian Sun on X | Instagram | Facebook
Support Independent Community Journalism
Dear Reader,The Indian Sun exists for one reason: to tell stories that might otherwise go unheard.
We report on local councils, state politics, small businesses and cultural festivals. We focus on the Indian diaspora and the wider multicultural community with care, balance and accountability. We publish in print and online, send regular newsletters and produce video content. We also run media training programs to help community organisations share their own stories.
We operate independently.
Community journalism does not have the backing of large media corporations. Advertising revenue fluctuates. Platform algorithms change. Costs continue to rise. Yet the need for credible, grounded reporting in a multicultural Australia has never been greater.
When you support The Indian Sun, you support:
• Independent reporting on issues affecting migrant communities
• Coverage of local and state decisions that shape daily life
• A platform for small businesses and community groups
• Media training that builds skills within the community
• Journalism accountable to readers
We cannot cover everything, but we work to cover what matters.
If you value thoughtful reporting that reflects Australia’s diversity, we invite you to contribute. Every donation helps us maintain the quality and consistency of our work.
Please consider making a contribution today.
Thank you for your support.
The Indian Sun Team
