Sydney Thunder’s most experienced player is set to return for the next two summers, as spin star Sam Bates commits until the end of Weber WBBL|10.
Bates made her WBBL debut in Thunder’s first ever match at just 24-years-old, taking international star, Alyssa Healy’s wicket in her second over.
Since then, the left-arm spinner has taken 94 more wickets for the club, sitting ninth in the table for most taken by an individual in the competition’s history.
Born and raised in Newcastle, the 31-year-old now tops the leaderboard for games played for the club, overtaking club legend Rachael Haynes and becoming the first Thunder WBBL player to reach triple figures, notching 100 games last summer.
Bates spoke on her career with Sydney Thunder:
“I cherish every moment with the Thunder and always have. Every summer since 2015, it’s been a privilege to pull on the lime green and black jersey.
“It’s the fans, the values and the wonderful team here that make this club what it is, I love it.
“From the Penrith Oval to the new state of the art facility at Cricket Central, we’ve been through everything together as one team, one Thunder Nation. It’s a joy and I can’t wait to get back on the field with the girls this summer, starting October 22 at NSO!”
Head of Sydney Thunder, Andrew Gilchrist, added:
“Sam has been and continues to be a great asset for Thunder. She has helped shape the club from the beginning and we’re incredibly grateful for her experience both on and off the pitch.
“She embodies the Thunder Nation so fully and unapologetically, to have her commitment for the last eight years has been wonderful.
“We’re delighted she’s signed on for another two summers, and as leading wicket taker for the club last year, we know she’ll continue shine and bring out the best in the team for a long time to come.”
Thunder officially kick off their Weber WBBL|09 season on Sunday, October 22 at North Sydney Oval facing crosstown rivals Sydney Sixers. Tickets are available HERE.