Tahlia Wilson locked in for two more years

As per competition rules, each team can have up to eight multi-year contracted players as part of their squad, with Wilson taking the final spot. 

The star wicketkeeper-batter was a standout performer for Thunder this season, including back-to-back player of the match performances against the Perth Scorchers and Brisbane Heat. Wilson's impression 79 off 51 against the Heat was Thunder's top score this season and saw her pass the 1,000 WBBL runs milestone in that same game.

The 26-year-old has showcased significant growth in both her game and leadership, highlighted by her stepping up to captain the squad throughout their last two Spring Challenge campaigns.

“I’m really happy that I get to continue my WBBL career with the Thunder,” said Wilson.

"I’m incredibly lucky to have been a part of this group for so long and thank Trent, Lisa and the team for putting their trust in me. 

“This season didn’t end the way we wanted to but with the young talent we have coming through like Lucy Finn combined with the international experience of our captain Phoebe, we're really building something special.”

Sydney Thunder General Manager Trent Copeland said he was thrilled to have locked in Tahlia for two more seasons. 

“Tahlia has been one of the most dominant domestic players over the past few years, the move back to the top of the order showed flashes of her brilliance. 

“Not just with the bat, but also behind the stumps as one of the country’s best wicketkeepers. We’re positive Tahlia is primed for national selection at some point in the near future.  

“Tahlia’s also such a great leader amongst our squad, having captained the side in the Spring Challenge and I’m excited to see her continued growth over the next two years.” 

Ahead of the upcoming trade period, Thunder have opted to not activate the third-year option in Chamari Athapaththu’s contract. 

Copeland acknowledged Athapaththu’s amazing performances for the club over the last three seasons.

“Chamari has been an outstanding contributor during her time with the club, delivering match-winning performances and inspiring our squad with her experience, leadership and broader cultural awareness. The broad smile and personality is infectious. 

“We are prioritising our young, exciting domestic core with the 8 multi-year slots available to us, and the door is still open via the draft with retention rights for Chamari still to be a Thunder player in the future.”

Sydney Thunder WBBL Contracted Players:
Phoebe Litchfield (C), Sam Bates, Hannah Darlington, Hasrat Gill, Laura Harris, Anika Learoyd, Georgia Voll, Tahlia Wilson 

Off Contract:
Chamari Athapaththu, Ella Briscoe, Sienna Eve, Lucy Finn, Shabnim Ismail, Heather Knight Taneale Peschel