Shane Watson is a big fan of Sydney Thunder teammate Andre Russell.
But Russell's infamous black bat? Not so much.
The former Test allrounder has backed Russell to finally fire in the Big Bash League this summer.
He just preferred it wasn't with his controversial bat.
"In the end I know it's a bit of a marketing tool but I think it looks pretty ridiculous having a coloured bat," Thunder captain Watson said on Tuesday.
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"I prefer just to see a nice willow coloured bat compared to something painted black or green."
Watson won't get his wish.
After Watson spoke on Tuesday, allrounder Russell was cleared to use his black bat again after making modifications to stop damage to the ball.
The West Indian star was banned from using the bat, which has a pink handle and a black blade, after match officials discovered it had marked the white ball in last week's BBL Sydney derby.
However, officials have since given Russell the green light to resume using the bat after he worked with manufacturers to modify it.
"A clear laminate cover has been applied to the bat which complies with regulations to ensure the ball discolouration does not occur again," BBL boss Anthony Everard said.
"We're now satisfied that the bat will not compromise the integrity of the game by discolouring the match ball and we have granted approval for Andre to use the bat in any future BBL matches."
Under BBL regulations, a player can use a coloured bat, subject to approval.
It must be black or the same as the team's primary colour.
Match umpires can also ask a player to change the bat if they feel it is affecting the integrity of the game.
The bat backflip is welcome good news for Russell who is yet to fire in the BBL this summer.
He has made just 11 runs but has taken 3-69 in defending champion Thunder's two games.
However, Watson backed Russell to "go off", preferably starting against Brisbane Heat at Spotless Stadium on Wednesday night.
"It hasn't been exactly how it was at the start of the Big Bash last year," Watson said of Russell.
"But the firepower that he has with bat and ball he can go off in any game.
"He's showing great signs."
