Warner Shatters Records with Stunning BBL Performance
David Warner delivered an astonishing performance for the Sydney Thunder, leading his team to a pivotal victory in their Big Bash League (BBL) match against the Hobart Hurricanes. Warner scored an impressive 130 not out off just 65 balls, featuring 11 fours and nine sixes, a feat that has placed him among the top players in the competition’s history.
Record-Setting Performance
This match, played at ENGIE Stadium, showcased Warner’s extraordinary talent. His knock marked his second Big Bash century and the first for the Thunder in over 14 years. This achievement also made him the fifth player in BBL history to score 130 or more in an innings. He joins an elite group that includes:
- Glenn Maxwell – 154*
- Marcus Stoinis – 147*
- Josh Brown – 140
- Matthew Wade – 130*
During his innings, Warner was fortunate to escape two near-dismissals, first when he was dropped on 26 and later when a cut shot narrowly avoided the fielders. As he crossed the century mark, he celebrated with a playful “six-seven” gesture dedicated to his daughters in attendance.
Team Dynamics and Comeback for Maddinson
Despite an alarming start, where the Thunder lost their first two wickets for golden ducks, they managed to finish at 2/206. Nic Maddinson, returning to BBL action for the first time since Boxing Day 2023, played a vital role in the team. After enduring a broken thumb and recent treatment for testicular cancer, Maddinson expressed gratitude for his opportunity with the Thunder.
“It’s nice to be out there, and I’m grateful for the opportunity,” Maddinson stated. Australian cricket legend Mark Waugh praised his return, calling him a “very dangerous player” at his best.
Match Context and Outlook
Heading into this match, the Thunder had struggled, winning only one of their first five fixtures this season. Their previous encounter with the Hurricanes ended in a four-wicket defeat. Both teams had faced challenges, with the Hurricanes recently suffering a loss to the Perth Scorchers.
The Thunder lineup for the match included Warner (c), Matthew Gilkes, Sam Konstas, Sam Billings (wk), Nic Maddinson, Shadab Khan, Daniel Sams, Chris Green, Tom Andrews, Nathan McAndrew, and Wes Agar. The Hurricanes’ final XI consisted of Mitch Owen, Tim Ward, Rehan Ahmed, Ben McDermott, Nikhil Chaudhary, Matthew Wade (wk), Chris Jordan, Will Prestwidge, Nathan Ellis (c), Rishad Hossain, and Riley Meredith.
As the 2025/26 KFC BBL season continues, the Thunder’s hopes rest on building momentum from Warner’s stunning performance against the Hurricanes.
