On Tuesday (August 19), the Sydney Thunder, a BBL team, announced that Sam Konstas‘ contract had been extended through the 2029 season.
Konstas, who is 19 years old, has already represented Australia in Test cricket and won an Under-19 World Cup. His 20-ball fifty, which was the fastest for Thunder and the youngest to achieve the milestone in the history of the game, also made headlines during his Big Bash League debut.
Konstas, who grew up cheering for the Thunder, noted that last season’s experience hitting with veteran David Warner was a tremendous learning opportunity. “I remember being a fan in the stands watching my heroes like Davey (Warner), Michael Hussey and Andre Russell play for Thunder, so to extend for another four seasons is very exciting,” Konstas stated.
The fact that Davey approaches things strategically made it an excellent learning experience for me to bat with him last season. I felt like I could play my game with a lot of clarity and freedom. Shadab (Khan) has joined our fascinating gang once more. We’re going to rule this year, in my opinion.
One of the simplest choices before the upcoming season, according to Thunder general manager Trent Copeland, was to offer Konstas a contract.
“Since I started in this role, it’s been remarkable to watch Sam’s progression,” Copeland stated. “He hadn’t participated in a BBL game at this time last year, so his rise to shattering records on debut and his development in other formats demonstrate how far he’s come. In terms of tenure, this deal is significant, and we regard it as a step in the process that will ideally turn him into a lifelong Thunder player.
“This extension not only honours Sam’s development and his enduring devotion to the team, but it also communicates to our supporters that we will make every effort to retain talented players in Thunder colours. This season, bring on the trophy, and Sam will be there to lift it up with Davey Warner and the boys.