Big Bash League

David Warner’s Cricket Dilemma: Juggling BBL and ILT20

by
Zainab Shafiq
August 22, 2023

Warner’s Dual Commitment: BBL & ILT20
ILT20 Start Dates Remain Uncertain
Thunder’s Coaching Changes and Key Signings

David Warner is set to fulfill his obligations with Sydney Thunder before joining the Dubai Capitals for the ILT20, but his availability may be affected by his duties with the Australian national team. Warner, along with England fast bowler Mark Wood, was recently introduced as one of the Capitals’ new signings for the January and February tournament.

This schedule could potentially overlap with the latter stages of the Big Bash League (BBL). Warner’s availability for the Thunder is expected after the conclusion of the Pakistan Test series in early January, as he has expressed his desire to finish the format at the Sydney Cricket Ground. However, playing in the ILT20 in the UAE would require a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from Cricket Australia.

The exact extent of any fixture clash remains uncertain, as the start dates for the ILT20 have yet to be confirmed. Although January 13, 2024, was initially announced as the beginning of season two shortly after the inaugural edition, this date is still pending official confirmation. It is understood that BBL clubs have been operating under the assumption that the ILT20 would commence around January 20, as they plan for the availability of overseas players in the upcoming draft scheduled for September 3.

Warner’s availability for the Capitals, should the tournaments overlap, may depend on whether the Thunder advance to the BBL finals. The BBL regular season concludes on January 17, so if the Thunder do not progress, Warner could potentially head to the UAE. However, even if he is clear of Thunder duties, he would still require an NOC.

Warner, who signed a lucrative two-year deal with Thunder worth AUD$340,000 per season, made his return to the BBL last year after an absence since 2013. He played six matches, scoring 99 runs at a strike rate of 108.79. Additionally, Warner’s participation in the ILT20 could be impacted by Australia’s T20I series against West Indies from February 9-13, which might overlap with a portion of the ILT20.

Thunder’s Daniel Sams and Perth Scorchers’ Andrew Tye were also announced as ILT20 signings. Tye’s availability is still under consideration due to his Western Australia state contract.

Furthermore, ahead of the new season, Thunder has made two coaching appointments. Dan Christian, who retired from Sydney Sixers at the end of the last BBL season, will serve as an assistant coach to Trevor Bayliss for the BBL. Michael Klinger, currently New South Wales’ head of T20 male cricket, will assist the WBBL side under new head coach Lisa Keightley.

Christian expressed his enthusiasm for the role, stating that he hopes to share his knowledge and experiences with Thunder players and learn from Trevor Bayliss.