With the withdrawal of David Willey, the Sydney Thunder have suffered a setback ahead of the next Big Bash League season. Willey was selected by the Thunder in the first round of the BBL draft.
The Thunder and Willey have collectively agreed to terminate the contract, the club said on Tuesday (November 15).
“David and his management have been tremendous to deal with,”
Head of Sydney Thunder, Andrew Gilchrist said.
“Sydney Thunder regrets David won’t be playing for us this season, but we wish him and his family all the very best for the future.”
Andrew Gilchrist added.
Willey was a part of England’s T20 World Cup-winning squad but did not appear in any of the games. Willey is well-known for his big-hitting ability with the willow, having struck several hundreds in T20 cricket. Thunder has already begun hunting for a suitable replacement.
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Willey backing out is indeed a setback for Thunder
Willey’s decision is a setback for Thunder, who will be without foreign batsmen Alex Hales and Rilee Rossouw in early January. However, for the first time since 2013, they will be able to call on the services of David Warner following the conclusion of the home Tests this summer.
“We have started the process, but Sydney Thunder boasts some incredible players on this summer’s roster,”
Gilchrist said.
“Alex Hales has been a star for England’s T20 World Cup campaign, and Rilee Rossouw proved while playing for South Africa how dangerous he can be. We also have the best signing of the season in Dave Warner, while Jason Sangha, Chris Green, Tanveer Sangha, Ben Cutting, and Matthew Gilkes are among the best in the business.”
Gilchrist added.
Thunder would then begin off the new season against Melbourne Stars at Manuka Oval on December 13.
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