Joe Root and  Jos Buttler are all set to play for Sydney Thunder in the upcoming edition of  Big Bash League (BBL) as the duo signed a contract with the franchise on Friday (24 August).

This is the first T20 overseas assignment for Root as the 27-year-old went unsold in the Indian Premier League auction in January 2018. Recently, Root was dropped for India T20I at home, which made him feel that is not up for his game in this format. However, this BBL contract ha put all doubts regarding his potential as a T20 cricketer to rest. 

 England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has allowed them to play in the first half of the tournament, as the Aussie T20 competition falls between their winter tours to Sri Lanka and West Indies.

Meanwhile, Buttler, who is regarded as one of the finest T20 players in the world, has penned down his second deal with Thunder, as the English batsman has already played 6 matches for them in 2018 season. He was also part of the Melbourne Renegades in 2014 edition.

As per reports in the official website of Sydney Thunder, Root said in a statement, “I want to gain as much experience as possible in T20 cricket. I’m sure there will be some mixed emotions for the fans (with me signing) but hopefully I can win them over through the time there. There’s an opportunity for myself now to put in some strong performances and help Sydney Thunder go on and do some special things this year.”

While Thunder head coach Shane Bond signed off by saying, “It’s brilliant for the club to get two players of their quality to join us. Everybody knows Jos is one of the best T20 players in the world. They bring leadership to our team and you couldn’t ask for two better players.”