David Warner has officially committed to playing his first full season in the Big Bash League (BBL) after inking a two-year contract with the Sydney Thunder. The former Australian opener, who stepped away from international cricket earlier this year, will wear the Thunder’s signature lime green for the entirety of BBL|14. This represents a major coup for the franchise.

David Warner commits to play entire season

While Warner’s past appearances with the Thunder have been sporadic due to national team obligations, this time, supporters can look forward to seeing him in action for the entire tournament. At 37, Warner has been a pivotal figure for the Thunder since making his BBL debut back in 2011, where he set the stage alight by scoring the team’s inaugural century—an unbeaten 102 off just 51 balls against the Sydney Sixers. Throughout his Thunder career, he has featured in 10 matches, racking up 301 runs at an impressive average of 37.62 and a strike rate of 135.58.

Warner’s take on re-signing with Sydney Thunder

“I’ve always been part of the Thunder…I really liked the environment last year (at the Thunder), I gelled back with the boys and I just love playing cricket,” Warner said on his decision to re-sign with the franchise.

“The group of guys that we had last season really brought a lot of energy, we had a lot of fun on the field, but off the field we gelled very well together and this year, I think we can go a couple of steps better and play some play some good cricket.

Big Bash League (BBL) season 14, scheduled to begin in December 2024, it promises to deliver another exciting chapter in Australia’s premier T20 competition. Alongside Warner, the Sydney Thunder will boast a strong lineup that includes England wicket-keeper Sam Billings, up-and-coming talent Ollie Davies, and Warner’s former Test opening partner, Cameron Bancroft. Warner’s commitment to the full BBL season follows his retirement from international cricket, giving him the opportunity to dedicate himself entirely to the tournament.