Australian cricket legends David Warner and Steven Smith have made significant commitments to the upcoming Big Bash League (BBL) season, marking a new chapter in their illustrious careers. Warner, who recently announced his retirement from international cricket, has signed a new two-year deal with Sydney Thunder, ensuring his availability for a full BBL season for the first time. Smith, meanwhile, has inked a three-year contract with Sydney Sixers, potentially extending his participation in the league beyond his Test career.
Warner’s Full Commitment to BBL
David Warner’s decision to retire from international cricket has opened the door for a complete focus on domestic T20 competitions. Warner’s new contract with Sydney Thunder guarantees his presence throughout the BBL season, including the knockout stages. This move comes after Warner’s sporadic participation in the BBL over the past two years, where he played eight games for Thunder after a decade-long absence from the league.
“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 Trent Copeland, the Thunder general manager. “In Davey, we get a world-class talent with almost 20 years of T20 experience, and now that he has retired from international cricket, we can count on his full focus and commitment for the entire tournament, including the finals.”
Warner’s impact on the BBL is expected to be significant, not only due to his experience but also because of his popularity and the excitement he generates among fans. Last season, Warner made headlines when he arrived at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) by helicopter for a match, underscoring his star power.
Steven Smith: A Potential BBL Mainstay
Steven Smith, who has been a key figure in Australian cricket for over a decade, is set to be available for up to four games for Sydney Sixers this season, including a potential Sydney derby against Warner’s Thunder. Smith’s new three-year contract with the Sixers indicates that he could play a more substantial role in the BBL if he decides to retire from Test cricket during this period.
“I don’t have any plans,” Smith stated. “I’m just enjoying playing at the moment; I’m pretty relaxed and looking forward to this summer. India’s going to be a great challenge—they are a very good side. I think we are probably the two best Test teams in the world going head-to-head over five Tests. I’m excited by that.”
Smith’s future in the Australian Test team remains a topic of discussion, especially after he replaced Warner as an opener earlier this year. However, Smith has indicated that he is open to batting in different positions, depending on the team’s needs.
Smith, who was a part of the Sixers’ inaugural BBL-winning squad in 2012, has been available for the league only sporadically due to his international commitments. His recent performance in the Major League Cricket (MLC) for Washington Freedom, where he captained the team to a title under Ricky Ponting‘s coaching, showcased his enduring skill and leadership in the T20 format.
Labuschagne and Carey Extend BBL Stints
In addition to Warner and Smith, Marnus Labuschagne and Alex Carey have also committed to the upcoming BBL season. Labuschagne has re-signed with Brisbane Heat, the reigning BBL champions, while Carey has extended his association with Adelaide Strikers for another four years.
Labuschagne, who will join Heat after Australia‘s Test series against India concludes in early January, is seen as a vital asset to the team. “His game sense is exceptional, and that is a huge asset to us on and off the field,” said Johan Botha, the new coach of Brisbane Heat.
Carey, who has been a mainstay for the Strikers, has played 56 BBL games over his eight-year career with the team. With Tim Paine, Carey’s predecessor as Australia’s Test wicketkeeper, taking over as Strikers’ coach, the team is looking forward to a strong season with Carey at the helm behind the stumps.
Australia’s Big Three Quicks Opt Out
Notably, Australia’s leading fast bowlers—Josh Hazlewood, Mitchell Starc, and Pat Cummins—have not signed with any BBL teams for the upcoming season. The trio is expected to take breaks from bowling before Australia’s tour of Sri Lanka, which begins in late January, coinciding with the BBL knockout stages.
Stay updated with all the cricketing action, follow Cricadium on WhatsApp, Facebook, Twitter, Telegram, and Instagram
