Adelaide: Australia Men’s captain Pat Cummins has once again committed to Sydney Thunder, signing on as a Cricket Australia marquee supplementary player for the upcoming KFC Big Bash League 2025–26 (BBL|15) season.
Cummins becomes the 19th supplementary player, meaning he sits outside the Thunder’s official 18-member playing squad but can be activated if international commitments allow later in the tournament.
Ashes First, Big Bash Possibility Later
While Cummins’ immediate focus remains firmly on leading Australia in the Ashes, the signing keeps the door open for a return to the lime green later in the summer, particularly ahead of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup.
The fast bowler has a strong history with the Thunder, having been part of their title-winning BBL|05 squad. Cummins was contracted with the club from BBL|05 through BBL|09, before international duties limited his availability.
One of his standout performances came in 2014, when he claimed 2 for 21 against Brisbane Heat, helping Thunder secure a dominant 56-run victory. He was also at the non-striker’s end during Eoin Morgan’s famous last-ball six that stunned the Melbourne Stars in a dramatic Big Bash finish.
Cummins: “It Means a Lot to Be Locked in with Thunder”
Speaking about his return, Cummins highlighted his connection to the club and Western Sydney roots.
“It means a lot to me that I am locked in with Thunder having grown up in Western Sydney,” Cummins said.
“I’ll obviously have limited time with the group while we try and win the Ashes, but I’m looking forward to supporting the team during what will be an exciting summer.”
Cummins also praised the leadership direction under David Warner, who has taken on a key role within the squad.
“You can already see the winning mentality that Davey Warner is building. We almost got there last year, and I’m confident we can go one further this season,” he added.
“A big thank you to Thunder Nation for the continued support—I can’t wait to see you at the games.”
Thunder Management Delighted with Cummins’ Commitment
Sydney Thunder General Manager Trent Copeland welcomed Cummins’ re-signing, calling it a major boost for the club.
“We’re very lucky to have Pat on board once again. Not every team can say they have the support of Australia’s captain,” Copeland said.
“This reflects Pat’s ongoing commitment to the club. While his priority is the Ashes, the door will always be open should circumstances allow him to play post-series and ahead of the T20 World Cup.”
Thunder Begin BBL|15 Campaign
Sydney Thunder kick off their BBL|15 campaign in Hobart with a grand final rematch against the Hobart Hurricanes, before returning to ENGIE Stadium for the highly anticipated Sydney Smash on December 20.
Sydney Thunder BBL|15 Squad
Wes Agar, Charlie Anderson, Tom Andrews, Cameron Bancroft, Sam Billings (ENG), Pat Cummins, Ollie Davies, Lockie Ferguson (NZ), Matthew Gilkes, Chris Green, Ryan Hadley, Shadab Khan (PAK), Sam Konstas, Nic Maddinson, Nathan McAndrew, Blake Nikitaras, Aidan O’Connor, Daniel Sams, Tanveer Sangha, Reece Topley (ENG), David Warner
