Usman Khawaja signs three year contract with Sydney Thunder

Usman Khawaja has been one Australia’s most classical left-handed batsmen to have played the game. However, plagued by erratic performances, his career never shaped up appropriately. Nevertheless, he has been a consistent performer in the Big Bash League (BBL) and that has kept him in the prominence.

The 30-year old represents the Sydney Thunder team in the tournament and has played some scintillating knocks for them, including a couple of centuries in the Thunder’s victorious campaign in 2015-16. Recently, he signed a three-year contract with the franchise, therefore extending his stay in Sydney.

Khawaja spoke to the media and expressed his elation to play for the Thunder. “I’ve spent a lot of years at Thunder and it’s very close to my heart, I love going back there. I’ve been here since the first game and always enjoyed it, especially the last few years. The guys are good every time I go back and it’s very fun, very chilled out and they’re all good people. When you put that together it makes for good cricket.” he said

He also credited his family for extending support and standing by him throughout. “It was a very easy decision, I love coming back to Sydney and seeing my parents and friends. They’ve been there since the start. My nephew is a die-hard Thunder fan. Every time he sees pink he blows up, he just loves the green team” the left-hander quoted

Lee Germon, the General Manager of Sydney Thunder, hailed Khawaja’s attributes and hallmark as a player. “I am thrilled that Usman has committed to Thunder for three years. He brings leadership, experience and quality. He epitomises the values of the Thunder Nation,” the Manager quoted.

An exciting season ahead for Khawaja

A prolific run-scorer for the Sydney Thunder, Khawaja has racked up 819 runs for them in 21 appearances at a staggering average of 51.18. He played some outstanding knocks, but the most significant one came against the Melbourne Stars in the final of the 2015-16 when he scored 70 off 40 balls.

The knock eventually guided the Thunder to their maiden BBL title. They will open their 2017-18 campaign against the Sydney Sixers on December 19.