Sydney Thunder Secure Chamari Athapaththu

Sydney Thunder has locked in Sri Lanka captain Chamari Athapaththu for the next three WBBL seasons through a pre-draft signing. The upcoming season is scheduled to begin on October 27.

Athapaththu, who played for the Thunder last season as an undrafted player, took the final overseas slot on their roster. She had an outstanding season, earning the Player-of-the-Tournament title by scoring 552 runs at an average of 42.46 and taking nine wickets, helping the Thunder to a fourth-place finish.

Athapaththu expressed her enthusiasm for the long-term commitment, stating that choosing to stay with Sydney Thunder was easy due to her belief in the club's vision and future potential. She mentioned that her teammates are more than just colleagues; they are friends who inspire each other to improve every day. Representing the diverse and vibrant community of Western Sydney is an honour for her, and she is excited about what lies ahead with the team.

This signing is significant because, unlike previous seasons where overseas WBBL players were typically contracted for just one year, Athapaththu’s deal falls under the league's new multi-year contract provision. This rule allows each club to sign one overseas player for up to three years outside the draft, which is set for September 1.

Trent Copeland, Sydney Thunder's general manager, praised Athapaththu not only for her cricketing skills but also for her character. He acknowledged that other teams were interested in signing her, but Thunder made every effort to bring her back. Copeland highlighted her exceptional connection with members and fans last summer and noted that her on-field performance was one of the best in WBBL history.

Athapaththu has previously played in the WBBL for Melbourne Renegades and Perth Scorchers. Last season, she joined the Thunder squad after not being selected in the draft, covering for their three overseas players. Sydney Thunder will kick off their 2024-25 campaign against Hobart Hurricanes on October 28.

Sydney Thunder Updated Squad

Chamari Athapaththu, Samantha Bates, Hannah Darlington, Saskia Horley, Anika Learoyd, Phoebe Litchfield, Claire Moore, Taneale Peschel, Georgia Voll, Tahlia Wilson