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David Warner is set to become a full-time player in the Big Bash League (BBL) for the first time in his career, having signed a two-year contract with Sydney Thunder. This move follows his decision to end his international career, allowing him to dedicate himself fully to the BBL. Warner, who previously appeared in only eight games for Thunder over the last two seasons due to international obligations, will now apply his nearly 20 years of T20 expertise throughout the entire tournament, including the finals.
Meanwhile, Steven Smith will continue his involvement in the BBL beyond his Test career, securing a new three-year deal with Sydney Sixers.
“Davey is popular wherever he plays, right around the world, particularly in India, and I know the South Asian communities in Sydney’s west will get right behind him at Thunder,” said Thunder general manager Trent Copeland in a statement released on Tuesday.
“In Davey we get a world-class talent, and now that he has retired from international cricket, we can count on his full focus and commitment for the entire tournament.”
Steven Smith has committed his future to the Sydney Sixers with a new three-year contract. Although he is currently one of Australia’s Test openers, this agreement provides Smith the flexibility to participate in a full BBL season should he choose to retire from international cricket within the next three years.
Smith, however, remains noncommittal about his Test future, stating, “I don’t have any plans. I’m just enjoying playing at the moment, I’m pretty relaxed and looking forward to this summer.”
Steven Smith, a key player in the Sydney Sixers’ inaugural BBL victory in 2012, made a notable comeback two summers ago with consecutive centuries in a five-match stint. His involvement in the upcoming season, even if limited to a few games, is anticipated to bring a valuable boost to the Sixers’ campaign.
Alongside Warner and Smith, other Australian Test stars such as Marnus Labuschagne and Alex Carey have also renewed their contracts with their BBL teams. Labuschagne will rejoin the Brisbane Heat, the reigning champions, following Australia’s tour of India, which wraps up in early January. “His game sense is exceptional and that is a huge asset to us on and off the field,” said Heat coach Johan Botha. Carey, who has spent his entire BBL career with the Adelaide Strikers, has signed a new four-year contract with the franchise.
Australia’s leading fast bowlers—Josh Hazlewood, Mitchell Starc, and Pat Cummins—have not yet secured BBL contracts. They are likely to focus on rest and recovery before the tour of Sri Lanka, opting to prioritize their fitness over participating in the tournament.