Australian cricket captain Pat Cummins has signed with Sydney Thunder as a Cricket Australia marquee supplementary player for the KFC BBL|13 campaign.
Cummins returns to the Big Bash and Sydney Thunder in a slightly different capacity this year.
As a 19th supplementary player, the international star sits outside of the 18-strong playing squad but could be brought in should he become available.
Although it’s unlikely we’ll see him take to the field due to Australia’s series against Pakistan, he will be visible across the club’s campaign and a voice for the Thunder Nation throughout the summer.
Many will know him as the successful Australia Men’s captain, but he is also a successful Thunder player being a part of the title winning squad in BBL|05.
He was in fact contracted to the club from 05 to BBL|09, his last stint in the competition before international duties took hold.
One of his most memorable performances with ball in hand was taking 2 for 21 in 2014 against Brisbane Heat to take Thunder to a 56-run victory. Not to mention, being at the non-strikers end when ex-England international Eoin Morgan hit a six on the last ball to beat the Melbourne Stars in BBL|06.
Having lead Australia through a fantastic 2023, winning the World Test Championships, retaining the Ashes and winning the ICC ODI World Cup all within the last seven months, reconnecting with his Thunder family will help boost the profile of the club and highlight his Penrith roots.
“I’m a western Sydney guy at heart so I’m really glad I can be a part of the team this summer. International duties dictate I can’t be around as much as I’d like but I’m keen to have a voice and back the guys all the way!” Cummins said.
Head of Sydney Thunder, Andrew Gilchrist, said: “We’re incredibly lucky to have Pat on board. He’s a true great of the game and brings with him a wealth of knowledge and experience. He has had a terrific impact on the team every year he’s been involved and I’m sure it’ll be the same even from a far this time around.”
