Established all-rounder Sammy-Jo Johnson has announced her retirement from all forms of professional cricket, bringing an end to a memorable five-years in lime green.
Sammy-Jo calls time in lime
One of only two players from the current Sydney Thunder squad to have competed in the inaugural Women's Big Bash League (WBBL) season 10 years ago, Johnson retires from the world’s top short-format competition a three-time champion.
Joining Thunder from the Brisbane Heat ahead of WBBL|06, Johnson made an immediate impact, finishing her first season in lime green as the competition’s leading wicket-taker (22).
Her crucial role in Thunder’s championship-winning WBBL|06 campaign saw her become the first player to secure three consecutive WBBL titles, having previously won with the Heat in WBBL|04 and WBBL|05.
A fierce competitor and fan favourite known for her wicket-taking prowess, power hitting ability and leadership on and off the field, highlights were never hard to come by.
Johnson’s final WBBL stats are:
- 131 appearances (62 Heat, 69 Thunder)
- 3x WBBL champion (WBBL|04, 05 Heat, WBBL|06 Thunder)
- 111 wickets (53 Heat, 58 Thunder), Best bowling 4-26 (v Renegades, 9 Nov, 2020)
- 982 runs (417 Heat, 565 Thunder), Top score 52 (v Heat, 19 Nov, 2021)
Reflecting on her time with Thunder, Johnson expressed a mix of gratitude and fulfillment after a rewarding career.
“I've loved my time in lime green,” Johnson said.
"From winning WBBL|06, to meeting loads of new fans, to all the amazing friends I've made along the way... I'll always be grateful.
“I’m excited for the next chapter. Becoming a mechanic has always been a dream of mine, and now I'll be one step closer to moving into that full time."
Sydney Thunder General manager Trent Copeland praised Johnson’s contributions, acknowledging her as a player who led by example and inspired those around her.
“Sammy-Jo has been such a huge part of our sport, our club and our squad, every single fan that came in to contact with her was inspired.” Copeland remarked.
"Her passion and experience provided a competitive edge, and the influence she's had on our younger players is immeasurable.
"What an absolute ripper of a human being. An exceptional leader in every situation, we are incredibly grateful for Sammy-Jo’s contributions to the club, and we have no doubt she will thrive in her next chapter.”