David Warner to play first full BBL season with Sydney Thunder

Former Australian international cricketer David Warner has signed a two-year deal with the Sydney Thunder that will have him play the full Big Bash League season for the first time in his career.

With the tournament getting underway in December 2024, a host of big-name players have recently re-signed contracts.

Steve Smith will stay with the Sydney Sixers, extending his contract by three years in a move that could possibly have him playing in the league beyond his Test cricket retirement.

Alex Carey has signed on with the Adelaide Strikers, while Marnus Labuschagne has penned an extension with the Brisbane Heat.

Warner giving full focus to BBL after international retirement

While Warner is not new to the BBL, this will be the first time the big-hitting Australian has been available to play the entirety of the season.

The Thunder’s general manager, Trent Copeland, hopes that the signing will help generate further support for the club.

“Davey is popular wherever he plays, right around the world, particularly in India,” he said on Tuesday.

“I know the South Asian communities in Sydney’s west will get right behind him at Thunder.

“In Davey we get a world-class talent with almost 20 years of T20 experience.

“Now that he has retired from international cricket, we can count on his full focus and commitment for the entire tournament, including the finals.”

Smith is yet to step down from the national side, so he will not be available for the full 2024-25 Big Bash season.

However, with the former Aussie captain intending to play four matches for the Sixers, he could well face off against Warner once more.

Smith’s side finished runners-up in the most recent BBL season, falling to the Heat in the final, and will be expected to contend once again.

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