2024-25 Big Bash League Preview: Sydney Thunder

As the 14th edition of Australia’s Big Bash League draws ever closer, we’re previewing the tournament by analysing all eight squads in depth.

This piece sees us focus on the BBL 5 winners and a side set to be led by David Warner in his first captaincy role in since 2018, the Sydney Thunder.

Captain: David Warner

Head Coach: Trevor Bayliss

Confirmed Overseas Players: Sam Billings (ENG), Lockie Ferguson (NZ), Sherfane Rutherford (WI)

Last Season: 8th place

Betting Analysis: Batting

Sydney Thunder’s batting is underpinned by new captain David Warner, who is set to compete in a full BBL campaign for the first-time in his career. Although he comes into the tournament out of form, Warner has a massive point to prove after being unsold in the IPL and it would be typical of him to dominate on what are likely to be excellent batting pitches whenever the Thunder play at home.

But Warner isn’t the only boundary hitter among this side. They can also call upon the likes of Cameron Bancroft, a T20 Blast winner with Gloucestershire this past English summer. There’s also Sam Konstas, long-serving all-rounder Daniel Sams and West Indies overseas batter Sherfane Rutherford, who joins following his international commitments. It would also be remiss not to mention Sam Billings, a new signing on a multi-year overseas contract after winning BBL 13 with Brisbane Heat.

Betting Analysis: Bowling

We mentioned Daniel Sams’ power-hitting down the order as an important facet to his game, but it’s his left-arm bowling that is arguably more valuable to the Thunder. He and right-arm speedster Wes Agar make up the core of a strong domestic pace attack complemented by a genuine fast bowler in New Zealand’s Lockie Ferguson.

You can also throw in all-rounder Nathan McAndrew, who only adds to what is an impressive level of depth. Meanwhile in the spinning department, Chris Green is as reliable as ever, whilst 23-year-old leg-spin bowler Tanveer Sangha offers a point of difference. Sangha made his T20i debut for Australia last year.

Sydney Thunder Prediction: Warner the key to success

You could make a genuine case that with everybody fit and available, Sydney Thunder boasts the best bowling attack across the entire Big Bash League. Four quicker bowlers, including a left-arm option and multiple spin-bowlers to turn to. However, the reality is that those top order runs will make or break their tournament. David Warner has the most motivation of any player in the BBL to perform at the highest level, both as an opener and a captain. If he can get back in the runs, then Sydney Thunder are a good bet to make the play-offs and beyond.