English batter Sam Billings has joined Big Bash League (BBL) franchise Sydney Thunder on a multi-year deal, becoming the first player to strike the deal with the franchise under new multi-year contract. Sam Billings has joined the franchise for next three years, committing himself to the tournament in its entirety and beating the Big Bash League’s rival T20 leagues in UAE and South Africa.
On previous occasions, Billings played for the Sydney Thunder in 2020-21 and 2021-22. Later, he joined Brisbane Heat for the next two seasons. But, Billings has now made his return to the Thunder.
The new contract rule introduced in April allows franchises to secure the services of overseas players for up to three years with the condition that they are available to play the tournament in its entirety from 2025-26 season.
"I love Sydney and in particular Western Sydney and the chance to come back to a family club that is so connected to their members and fans and the people from the area was too good an opportunity to ignore," Billings said in a statement.
"On the field we are pulling together a really good squad and the chance to work with such an accomplished coach as Trevor Bayliss again was very appealing.
"The BBL is in such a great place these days, it's well run, well supported and definitely the best tournament in the world staged at that time of the year. That's why I have committed long term and to be here right until the end of the tournament each year."
Sydney Thunder BBL squad: 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