Sydney, 6 November (Hindustan Reporter). David Warner has been named captain of Sydney Thunder for the upcoming edition of the Big Bash League (BBL) after his captaincy ban was lifted. This experienced left-handed player has replaced Chris Green, although Green will remain a part of the team as a player.
Less than two weeks after Warner became eligible for captaincy, the three-member independent panel has expressed satisfaction that he has met all the criteria for the ban to be lifted with immediate effect.
“It means a lot to me to captain the Thunder again this season,” Warner said in a statement issued by the club. I was part of the team from the beginning, and now it feels great to be back with a 'C' next to my name. I look forward to leading from the front and sharing my experience with the upcoming young talents.”
He said, “Leadership off the field is equally important. I want to create an environment where we can all take a break from the game, connect with each other and have fun. Whether eating with the team, on the golf course or meeting fans in Western Sydney, it's all about building camaraderie and staying down to earth. I want to appreciate the way Greeny (Chris Green) leads. He is an exceptionally talented player with great leadership qualities. Jason Sangha is also a great player. “I have gained great insight from both of them and I know I can rely on them this season.”
The Thunder are hopeful that Warner's captaincy will propel them towards success as they finished last season at the bottom. BBL 14 will start from 15th December. The Thunder's first match will be against the Adelaide Strikers in Canberra on 17 December.
Sydney Thunder squad: David Warner (captain), Wes Agar, Cameron Bancroft, Sam Billings, Oliver Davies, Lockie Ferguson, Matt Gilkes, Chris Green, Liam Hatcher, Sam Konstas, Nick Maddinson, Nathan McAndrew, Sherfane Rutherford, William Salzman, Daniel Sams, Jason Sangha, Tanveer Sangha.