Aussie duo sign on with Thunder

The pair have carved impressive paths through the New South Wales junior system, with both representing Australia at Under 19 level.  

Eve, a 20-year-old left-arm orthodox spinner from Newcastle, has been a prolific wicket-taker throughout her time at under-age national and international level. Just last year, she claimed four wickets in an international tri-series against Sri Lanka and England.  

Eve capped off a standout 2024 season by receiving the prestigious Alex Blackwell Medal for Female NSW Country Player of the Year. 

Speaking on her extension with the club, Eve said:  

“It’s a massive privilege [to re-sign]. I learnt so much last year, on and off the field. 

“Being around this group is special. They’re players I’ve looked up to since I was young, so to now be surrounded by them is incredible. [Sam] ‘Batesy’ has been awesome, not just with how she plays, but how much time she gives to help me out with any questions I have. 

“I’m looking forward to another year like last season. Just soaking up everything I can, growing as a cricketer, and having fun, which is easy with this group.” 

Sydney Thunder General Manager Trent Copeland said: 

“Sienna is an incredible person and an incredibly talented cricketer. Her dedication to her craft and genuine passion for development are key reasons we’re committed to keeping her in lime green. 

“Sienna’s involvement last season was part of a deliberate plan to have her playing, learning, and observing Sam Bates in action... one of the best left-arm finger spinners in domestic cricket.  

“Having been part of our squad, we hope she not only enjoyed the experience but also developed her game alongside some of the world’s best. 

“There's no doubt she has a massive future ahead, but she's also ready to make an impact right now and we're really excited to see what this season brings for her.” 

Briscoe, a 19-year-old power-hitting all-rounder from Sutherland, secured her place in Thunder’s WBBL|10 squad following a standout T20 Spring Challenge campaign and subsequently debuted in round one against the Hobart Hurricanes.  

Earlier this year, she played a key role in Australia’s ICC Women’s Under-19 T20 World Cup run to the semi-finals.  

Briscoe said she was thrilled to extend her time with the club, adding: 

“It was all so exciting last year, from joining the squad for Spring Challenge, getting the news I was playing my first WBBL game, to having my cap presented by Tahlia [Wilson]. I've grown up playing club cricket with her and she's such a great role model. 

“[Last season] I felt so supported by the girls and all the coaches. The message was always to back my strengths, which gives me a lot of confidence.  

“You get to learn a lot from our team. Watching players like [Georgia] Volly, [Chamari] Atta and Phoebe go about it, especially with the bat, has been huge for me.  

“I can’t wait to be back, having fun but working hard to push for a spot in the [starting] 11.” 

Sydney Thunder General Manager Trent Copeland said: 

“Ella really impressed us last year at the [T20] Spring Challenge and has continued to do so at premier cricket and pathways level.   

“Her fearless approach with the bat and knack for taking crucial wickets makes her an asset that we’re very fortunate to have.  

“To make your WBBL debut at such a young age is a remarkable achievement and a credit to the hard work, maturity, and talent she’s shown throughout every level of her development. 

“We’re excited to see her continue to go from strength to strength this summer and beyond.” 

Sydney Thunder will commence preparations for WBBL|11 through the T20 Spring Challenge in October. Read more about this competition here.  

Sydney Thunder Weber WBBL|11 squad to date:  
Chamari Athapaththu (INT), Samantha Bates, Ella Briscoe, Hannah Darlington, Sienna Eve, Hasrat Gill, Laura Harris, Shabnim Ismail (INT), Heather Knight (INT), Anika Learoyd, Phoebe Litchfield, Taneale Peschel, Georgia Voll, Tahlia Wilson.  

Tickets to WBBL|11 go on sale next week! CLICK HERE to secure your Thunder membership at an early bird price.