Australia’s explosive batsman David Warner signed a two-year deal with Sydney Thunder to end his nine-year hiatus in the Big Bash League. He is expected to be available for the franchise after the conclusion of the Sydney Test against South Africa. Warner can play five Sydney Thunder matches after January 8. After this the Test team will leave for India for a four-Test tour.
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The 35-year-old had to choose between the new UAE T20 tournament and the Big Bash. He has chosen the league of his country. David Warner last played in the Big Bash in December 2013. He credits his daughters for his decision to stay in Australia and return to his former club. “My girls have told me that they would love to see me play in the BBL. It would be great for us to be a part of the BBL as a family,” Warner said on cricket.com.au.
Before Warner’s return to BBL 12, Travis Head and Marnus Labuschagne signed with Adelaide Strikers and Brisbane Heat respectively. Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc will skip the competition due to the busy international schedule.
Sydney Thunder will play against Perth Scorchers on January 13, Hobart Hurricanes on January 15, Melbourne Renegades on January 19, Sydney Sixers on January 21 and Melbourne Stars on January 25. Warner, who has played 96 Tests, 133 ODIs and 91 T20 matches for Australia, can play in these matches of the franchise.