The Thunder have confirmed the signing of Western Australian wicketkeeper batsmen Sam Whiteman for the BBL12 season.
The 30-year-old joined the Sydney franchise last season as a replacement for Usman Khawaja after a successful stint with the Scorchers, winning three BBL titles.
Now the left-hander will once again ply his trade on the east coast after being targeted by the Thunder’s recruitment team to add experience to a young and talented squad.
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“Sydney Thunder has an exciting group of players,” Whiteman said in a statement.
“I see this season as a wonderful opportunity for myself and the group.
“There is a nice balance here between the young players and the squad’s experienced heads. I see similarities to my time with Perth.”
Whiteman has been one of the Sheffield Shield’s in-form players, currently sitting fourth of the runs leaderboard behind Peter Handscomb, Cameron Bancroft and Tim Ward.
Opening the batting against South Australia in mid November, Whiteman scored a patient 193 from 394 balls.
Whiteman also revealed he was excited to once again play under Thunder coach Trevor Bayliss after the Sydney franchise finished the BBL11 season in third place.
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“I enjoyed having ‘Trev’ as our coach,” Whiteman said.
“While he provides his players with clear messaging, he allows them to play their own game.
He prepares the players well, but on game day it is up to the 11 guys playing (to do their thing). As a player I find that rewarding.
“My aim for BBL12 is quite simple: I’ve played a fair bit of cricket and I’m experienced. I want to add depth to the squad and to hopefully fit in as I did last year.”
Head of Thunder Andrew Gilchrist revealed exactly why the franchise were happy to hand Whiteman another contract.
“Sam showed us why he’s so highly respected throughout Australian cricket,” Gilchrist said.
“He fitted in from day one, and he was a tremendous influence around the players.
“Even though his on field appearances were limited due to Jason Sangha’s incredible form, he played a crucial role at Thunder. We’re very pleased he’s signed on for another year.”
