There is no denying the fact that the fans expect the unexpected when the West Indies players take the field. From weird hairdos, funny celebrations to batting with goggles on, very few can boast of being more entertaining than the Caribbean players and the latest player to grab the spotlight is Andre Russell.

Everyone present at the Sydney Cricket Ground was left utterly shocked when the West Indies all-rounder came out to bat for Sydney Thunders against Sydney Sixers in the opening game of Big Bash League six. The explosive batsman walked in with a bat that was black in colour with its handle being pink.

It prompted Brad Haddin, who was standing behind the wicket with the microphone on, to enquire about the legality of the bat.

A Cricket Australia spokesperson later confirmed that nothing was wrong with the black-coloured bat.

As quoted in cricket.com.au, the spokesperson said: “A player can use a coloured bat subject to CA approval. The bat may be the same colour as the Club’s primary colour, or black. CA retains the right to withdraw approval in its absolute discretion. The umpires can also request a player change the bat if they believe it affects the integrity of the match.”

Meanwhile, Russell did not enjoy a good outing with the bat as he could score only 9 runs off 7 balls. Moreover, his team also lost the match by 9 wickets.

This is not the first time that a player in the BBL has played with a coloured bat. Russell’s compatriot, Chris Gayle played with a golden-coloured bat in the fifth edition of the tournament. Aiden Blizzard also played with a green bat in January this year.