Physical Address
304 North Cardinal St.
Dorchester Center, MA 02124
Legendary England all-rounder Andrew Flintoff has been announced as the new BBL coach of Sydney Thunder.
Flintoff takes over from former England ODI World Cup-winning coach Trevor Bayliss, who left the Thunder after five years at the helm, signing a two-year deal.
Bellis’ tenure with the Thunder ended in the 2023–24 and 2025–26 seasons.
As a coach, Flintoff led the England Lions on their tour of Australia and the Northern Superchargers, now known as Sunrisers Leeds, for two seasons in The Hundred.
While in charge of the Thunder, he will continue to coach the England Lions, who are currently playing a multi-format series against South Africa A.
Flintoff, who will be coaching in the BBL for the first time, inherits a Thunder squad that is loaded with talent, including former Test players Sam Constance, David Warner and Cameron Bancroft, England wicketkeeper Sam Billings and white-ball international Tanvir Sangh.
Please use the Chrome browser for a more accessible video player
Flintoff reflects on his coaching career so far, saying he couldn’t be happier with his stint with the England Lions
He said: “I can’t wait to get there and start. I’m looking at it with a lot of optimism. You look at the franchise, you look at the players, you look at the support, and I think it’s something really big to build on.
“You look at the squad and it’s a really nice mix. You’ve got David Warner, Chris Green, Daniel Sams – some of those older guys are established cricketers, and you just want to give an environment where they can go in there and improve. We’ve seen how good they are. I’ve seen Sam Constance play against England Under-19s. The association is the same.
“I want our players to connect with those who come and watch us. I want them to enjoy the game of cricket. However, that’s all about hard work… I want them to play with passion and leave everything on the field. You look around the world now and everyone gets the chance to play for different teams but one of my goals over time with Sydney Thunder is that every year the best players in the team should look back. I want to play’.
“I’m excited to be here, to be involved and coach this team. I’m here to do the best I can for the team and for the people who support us.”
Huge moment for Sydney Thunder and the BBL
Please use the Chrome browser for a more accessible video player
Flintoff produced one of the best overs of all time to remove Justin Langer and Ricky Ponting in the 2005 Ashes.
Thunder general manager Trent Copeland described the appointment as a huge moment for his club and the BBL.
“It’s a massive day in the history of the Sydney Thunder, and the BBL more broadly,” Copeland said. “Fred brings something truly unique to the Sydney Thunder. He is a global icon of the game, but more importantly he is a modern leader who understands how to create a high-performance environment, connect with players as people and set lasting standards. His passion for the game, coaching and knowledge of Australian cricket and our Thunder program have been there throughout the process.
“The goal here isn’t just now; it’s a step-change to establishing a culture and identity that will position us for sustained success for years to come.”
Watch the first Test between England and New Zealand at Lord’s, live Sky Sports Cricket And main event Thursday from 10am (11am first ball). Didn’t get the sky? Get Sky Sports or Stream with NOW.
