Sydney Thunder have locked in one of the Big Bash League’s most prolific batters for another season, with former Australian opener David Warner signing a one-year contract extension ahead of BBL 2026-27. The experienced left-handed batter will continue to lead the side next year as well, after a disappointing season as a team.
Warner was the leading run-scorer in BBL 2025-26, amassing 433 runs at an elite average of 86.6 and a 154.09 strike rate, including two unbeaten centuries that kept the Sydney-based
side competitive even in a challenging overall season for the side.
Speaking after extending his stay at the club for one more year, Warner voiced his excitement about remaining with the club and his belief in the team’s comeback potential. The 39-year-old also pointed out that the work is already underway behind the scenes as Thunder aims to bounce back in the upcoming season.
“It was certainly a challenging year for us, we are a much better team than what we put on the field this season and were unable to put a consistent game together. But the support from our fans, turning up in numbers every game, it played a massive role in my decision to stay. I feel I’ve got plenty more to give to this team and to this game,” Warner said in a franchise statement.
“We’ve already begun reviewing the season and putting the right plans in place to ensure we deliver a much stronger campaign in BBL 16,” he concluded.
Warner is still the best BBL batter: Thunder's Copeland
Sydney Thunder’s general manager, Trent Copeland, welcomed the decision and underlined Warner’s value to the squad both on and off the field.
“We’re stoked that Davey is staying on for another season. He’s had an incredible year, not only is he one of the greatest T20 players in the world over the last 15 years, but still very clearly one of the best batters in the BBL and his fitness levels are elite. His hunger and his drive as a leader to improve upon a disappointing season for the squad is as strong as ever,” Copeland said.
Warner’s form in BBL15 was nothing short of spectacular. He finished as one of the competition’s most reliable run-scorers, producing a string of match-defining knocks, albeit at the back end of the tournament, including a career-best unbeaten 130* at ENGIE Stadium.
Sydney Sixers face Hobart Hurricanes in a Challenger clash
In other news, the ongoing season of the premier T20 league is still going strong, with the Sydney Sixers fighting for a spot in the finals of the competition against the Hobart Hurricanes on Friday at the Sydney Cricket Ground. Perth Scorchers, led by Ashton Turner, have already qualified for the ultimate clash and will face the winner of the above-mentioned clash on Sunday, January 25.
