BBL news – Sam Billings picks Sydney Thunder ahead of T20 rivals on three-year deal

The SA20 will also be more in line with the BBL when it starts in early January, while the ILT20 starts at the start of next season so it will create an even bigger clash.

Accordingly, under the terms of signing a three-year contract, a player must commit to the entire BBL including the finals from the 2025-26 season, but Billings has gone a step further and will be available for the rest of next season’s schedule.

“I love Sydney and particularly Western Sydney and the opportunity to return to a family club that has such a strong connection with its members and fans and the local people was too good an opportunity to pass up,” Billings said.

“On the field, we have a really good squad and the opportunity to work with a high-quality coach, as Trevor Bayliss has again been very attractive.

“The BBL is in a good place these days, it’s well run, well supported and it’s the best tournament in the world at that time of year. That’s why I’ve made a long-term commitment and been here until the end of the tournament every year.”

“The beauty of bringing a player of Sam Billings’ caliber to the team is not only the high-level ability he exhibits in all areas of the game but also his leadership on and off the field,” said Copeland.

The WBBL has a similar multi-year contract arrangement with New Zealand player Amelia Kerr the first to be signed under the deal when she moved to the Sydney Sixers from the Heat.

Sydney Thunder BBL Squad 2024-25: Wes Agar, Cameron Bancroft, Sam Billings, Oliver Davies, Matt Gilkes, Chris Green, Liam Hatcher, Sam Konstas, Nathan McAndrew, William Salzmann, Daniel Sams, Jason Sangha, Tanveer Sangha