As the Perth Scorchers prepare to leave their home fortress for their first away match of the Big Bash League season, English import Laurie Evans has given a candid insight into the unique realities of life on the road.
The Grind of Travel in the Big Bash
Evans, a seasoned T20 campaigner, described the constant travel as one of the most demanding aspects of the competition. The Scorchers, based in Western Australia, face some of the longest journeys in the league. Their upcoming trip to face the Sydney Sixers at the SCG on December 19 is a prime example of the logistical challenge.
The team will fly out on Monday, December 18, for the Wednesday night clash. This schedule is typical of the tight turnarounds that define the BBL calendar, leaving little time for acclimatisation or proper training sessions away from home.
Building Bonds Away from the WACA
According to Evans, these arduous trips are not without their silver lining. He emphasised that the time spent travelling and living in close quarters is crucial for building team chemistry. "It's a great chance for us to bond," Evans explained, highlighting the importance of camaraderie for a team's success over a long tournament.
The dynamic has shifted this season with the departure of long-time captain Ashton Turner due to injury. New skipper Aaron Hardie is now at the helm, and Evans noted that these extended periods together help solidify the new leadership structure and allow players to gel on a personal level, which translates to better understanding on the field.
Focus on the First Away Challenge
The immediate focus for Evans and the Scorchers is the formidable task of taking on the Sydney Sixers at their home ground. The Sixers, always strong contenders, will present a significant test for the visiting Perth side. Evans acknowledged the quality of the opposition but stressed that the Scorchers are concentrating on their own processes and game plans.
Success in the BBL often hinges on a team's ability to win away from home, and the Scorchers are renowned for their resilience on the road. This early-season trip will be a key indicator of their championship credentials for BBL|13.
For Evans, a player with experience in leagues worldwide, the Australian domestic circuit presents a specific set of challenges. The vast distances between cities make the BBL uniquely taxing. However, his perspective reveals a professional embracing the grind, using the travel as an opportunity to strengthen the squad's unity as they pursue another title for the most successful franchise in the league's history.
