Former Australian all-rounder Dan Christian has become Sydney Thunder’s replacement assistant coach in a unique twist in the current Big Bash League season.
Christian was the team’s assistant coach for the last two seasons, but now he will be available in the team as a player. His last match in the BBL was during the 2022-23 season against the Brisbane Heat. Coincidentally, he will be available to play against the same opponent this time as well.
Dan Christian changes from substitute player to assistant coach
🚨 BREAKING NEWS 🚨@ThinnderBBL 41-year-old assistant coach Christian was signed as a replacement for the player 😲 pandc.twandtter.conm/ll81XonrRinR
— 7Cricket (@7Cricket) JandninandrMr 5, 2025
The decision to include Dan Christian in the team was made because of no. injury concerns for the Sydney Thunder recently. Legspinner Tanveer Sangha has a side strain while the top-order batter Jason Sangha he has a biceps injury.
Opener Konstas himself is unavailable due to his national commitments with the Australian Test team. In a recent match, Cameron Bancroft and Daniel Sams there was a brutal collision and both were injured.
Bancroft has a broken nose and a broken shoulder and has been ruled out for the entire BBL season. Meanwhile, Daniel Sams will also miss a few games with a concussion. Due to no. due to injuries, the club was forced to call up Christian as a substitute.
Trent Copeland on the inclusion of Dan Christian
Sydney Thunder general manager Trent Copeland has thanked Dan Christian for making himself available again as a player during difficult times for the club. He expects the versatile player to make an impact with his wealth of experience.
“We’re very happy to have Dan already at the club. He’s a BBL legend and there’s no doubt he’s still up to the task. We can’t wait to see him back in this environment and make an impact,” Copeland said.
“This season, our team has shown incredible character in every performance, and tomorrow’s game against the Heat will be no exception,” he added.
Dan Christian openly talks about being selected for the team
Dan Christian himself was excited to be back on the team as a player. While the all-rounder has expressed his satisfaction playing as a player, he also remains committed to his role as coach of the team.
“I am fully committed to my role as coach of the team and have really enjoyed working with the team we have here at Sydney Thunder for BBL 14,” stated Christian.
“I made the decision during the off-season that a return to the BBL or any other T20 league was never completely ruled out for me. I played NSW Premier Cricket with the UNSW Cricket Club and I’ve been training hard. The body feels great, and I wanted to be ready if if the opportunity arises,” he revealed.
“The incident with Cam Bancroft and Dan Sams was extremely unfortunate but I’m really grateful for the opportunity. I wish them all the best in their recovery and hope they’re back on the park soon,” the former Australian all-rounder added.
Along with Dan Christian, Hugh Weibgen has also been named in the Thunder squad for the game against Brisbane Heat at the Gabba on January 6. Weibgen was brought on as a concussion replacement in the Thunder’s last game against the Perth Scorchers in place of Cameron Bancroft.
