David Warner has committed to a full BBL season for the first time in his career, signing a new two-year deal with Sydney Thunder. Meanwhile, Steven Smith has secured a three-year contract with Sydney Sixers, potentially extending his participation in the competition beyond his Test career. Test teammates Marnus Labuschagne and Alex Carey also re-signed with Brisbane Heat and Adelaide Strikers, respectively, ahead of the 14th BBL season.
The Test stars will be available from the end of the Sydney Test against India until their departure for Sri Lanka on January 21, which coincides with the start of the BBL’s knockout stage. Warner, having retired from international cricket, will be available for the entire BBL season, marking a significant shift from his previous commitments. Sydney Thunder’s general manager, Trent Copeland, highlighted Warner’s popularity and the value of his extensive T20 experience.
Smith, on the other hand, is set to play up to four games for the Sixers, including a potential derby against Warner’s Thunder. Although he hasn’t set a timeline for his Test career, Smith hinted that he could eventually commit to a full BBL season if he retires from Test cricket within the next three years.
Labuschagne, returning to the reigning champions Brisbane Heat, will join the team after the India series, while Carey has signed a four-year deal with the Strikers, continuing his long-standing association with the franchise. The trio of Australia’s top fast bowlers—Josh Hazlewood, Mitchell Starc, and Pat Cummins—are yet to sign with any BBL teams and may take a break before the Sri Lanka tour.
