Sydney Thunder have announced the signing of New Zealand pacer Trent Boult for the entire duration of the Big Bash League (BBL) 2026-27 season, including the finals. This marks Boult’s return to the BBL, having previously played a season with Melbourne Stars in 2022-23.
This signing may cause a slight scheduling dilemma for Boult, as the BBL concludes on 26 January, juxtaposed with the SA20 tournament starting on 17 January in South Africa. Boult intends to join MICT in the SA20, which begins their campaign on 20 January. To avoid any conflicts, Boult would need Thunder to not reach the finals, allowing him to leave after their final league match on 17 January in Brisbane and make his way to South Africa swiftly.
Boult, excited about this new chapter, remarked on joining fellow Kiwi bowler Lockie Ferguson at Thunder. “I’m really excited to be playing in the Big Bash again and joining Lockie at Thunder,” Boult shared in a team release. “The way he gets involved is what I’m hoping to mirror and make a mark like he has – not just with the team but [with] the fans as well.”
Sydney Thunder have undergone some changes recently, most notably with the appointment of Andrew Flintoff as head coach, succeeding Trevor Bayliss after the team’s struggles in recent seasons. Flintoff expressed his enthusiasm about Boult joining the team. “Trent has an amazing reputation for being a great bloke, a team player, and a world-class performer,” Flintoff stated. “Having a couple [of] Kiwis in the team who have played a lot of cricket together over the years brings a level of familiarity, and I think they complement each other really well.”
Boult is coming off an impressive stint in the ETPL, finishing as the second-highest wicket-taker for the Edinburgh Castle Rockers with 16 wickets, including a memorable 5 for 24 against Glasgow Cosmic.
In other news, Bangladesh legspinner Rishad Hossain will continue with Hobart Hurricanes for the second year running. After taking 15 wickets in 12 matches last season, Rishad looks forward to teaming up once again with spin bowler Adam Zampa. Hurricanes general manager Salliann Beams praised Rishad’s impact, stating, “He was outstanding for us last season. To come into the Big Bash for the first time, play every game and finish as our leading wicket-taker showed the quality he has and how quickly he adapted to Australian conditions.”
Sydney Thunder will kickstart their BBL campaign against Adelaide Strikers in Canberra on 16 December. As the new season approaches, fans are keen to see the impact Boult’s presence will have on the team dynamics.
