BBL 2025-26: David Warner to miss Sydney Thunder’s season opener due to injury

David Warner (Source: Steve Bell/Getty Images)

Sydney Thunder will begin their BBL 2025-26 campaign without their star captain David Warner, after the veteran opener was ruled out of the season opener against the Hobart Hurricanes. Warner sustained a right-leg injury during a casual beach outing with his children, forcing the Thunder to change their plans ahead of a grand final rematch.

Warner’s absence comes as the Thunder look to redeem themselves after falling short against the Hurricanes in last season’s final. The left-hander finished as the team’s leading run-scorer with 405 runs. His injury, though not considered serious, has led the franchise to take a cautious step early in the tournament, prioritising his availability for other clashes later in the week.

Thunder General Manager Trent Copeland confirmed that Warner has been receiving treatment and is hopeful of returning for Saturday’s Sydney Derby against the Sydney Sixers.

“We try not to dwell too much on the past but last year’s loss in the Grand Final is going to act as fuel for us on Tuesday. “It’s obviously not ideal to not have Davey but we’d rather be careful earlier in the tournament. I’m confident he’ll be right for our biggest game of the year, the Sydney Smash on Saturday,” he said in a statement.

Chris Green to lead Sydney Thunder against Hobart Hurricanes

In Warner’s absence, experienced all-rounder Chris Green has been handed the captaincy for the contest against the Hurricanes. Meanwhile, Thunder have also added young fast bowler Charlie Anderson as a Local Replacement Player, handing the 20-year-old another opportunity. Anderson has already had a solid outing in List A cricket, picking up five wickets in three matches with best figures of 3/37.

Notably, Warner had hinted before the season that he might be open to adjusting his batting position depending on match-ups and conditions. His enforced absence in the opener could lead the Thunder to explore some batting roles.

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