Sangha’s Relish: Thunder Batter’s Windy Road to Final

On January 27, 2025By Littum

The defeat would end a third straight injury-marred campaign for the sidelined Sangha, who famously shouldered the burden of being Australian Cricket’s next big thing while still at school.

But the Thunder edged past the Melbourne Stars and on to Friday night’s Derby final at the SCG, where Sangha returned for his first game in nearly four weeks.

Sangha, trusted in the open alongside David Warner, repaid the Thunder’s faith with a composed 30 that helped lift his side into Monday night’s title-winning final in Hobart.

Jason Sangha was just 18 when he celebrated a century in an Ashes Tour game. (Dave Hunt/AAP Photos)

The stylish batter first shot to fame as the youngest cricketer in history to receive a NSW rookie contract, then aged 16 and this year 11.

Sangha captained Australia at an Under-19 World Cup and then became the youngest batter to score a first-class ton against England since Indian legend Sachin Tendulkar.

There have since been plenty of detours and downers for the now 25-year-old, who captained the Thunder as they were rolled to a then-record T20 total of just 15.

Sangha broke his collarbone shortly after that match in December 2022.

“It’s been unfortunate, I’ve had a couple of injuries this time of year,” Sangha said.

“The knuckle, in my first year as captain, then I did my wrist the year after.

“Obviously the bicep (twice) this season. It’s been a bit frustrating. I really want to be in good form Nick, especially after the shield game in Hobart, and it’s always difficult to just watch and not be able to contribute .

“But it was good to go and (it) was right in a final, I wouldn’t miss it for the world.”

Jason Sangha’s 2022-23 season was ruined when he broke a bone while fielding. (Scott Barbour/AAP photos)

The NSW product was seeking a fresh start and more opportunities with South Australia this season and entered the BBL window in fine form after a career-best knock of 151 at Bellerive Oval.

“He’s been unlucky with injuries but all the talent is there.. He’s a class act,” English Import Sam Billings said of his Thunder teammate.

Sangha, whose entire 33-game BBL career has been at The Lime Green, is relishing a chance to cap some time at home with a title at the same venue.

“It would mean a lot to this group and our supporters who have had to go through some tough seasons,” he said.

“We’ve had the same core players for a long time now, and we always felt that we were developing into something quite good.

“I’ve loved my time in SA, it’s been a change that I needed. I’m still young, I’ve only just turned 25, so I want to have a lot of cricket left in me.

“But it’s also been a really enjoyable few months back in Sydney and catching up with family and friends. Winning a trophy would be the icing on the cake.”