'Still up to the level': Retired Dan Christian set for shock BBL return amid Thunder injury crisis
Dan Christian is set to come out of BBL retirement for the Sydney Thunder as the club battles an injury crisis heading into the business-end of the season.
The 41-year-old all-rounder, who was a staple of the domestic T20 competition since its inception until retiring two years ago, joined the coaching staff last season.
But after a nasty collision between Daniel Sams and Cameron Bancroft saw both stars sidelined, Thunder officials were forced into changes for Monday night's game.
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Cameron Bancroft and Daniel Sams are both sidelined after a horror collision. Getty
Included in the 14-man squad was Christian, who has been plying his trade for UNSW in the grade cricket competition and could line up for the Sydney-based BBL side.
"We're very fortunate to have Dan already within the club," general manager Trent Copeland said in a statement on Sunday.
"He's a legend of the BBL and we've got no doubt he's still up to the level. We can't wait to see him jump back into this environment and make an impact.
"This season, our team has demonstrated tremendous character in every performance, and tomorrow night's match against the Heat will be no exception."
Along with Sams and Bancroft, who could both miss the remainder of the tournament, Jason Sangha (biceps) and Tanveer Sangha (side strain) are both out of action.
Dan Christian. Getty
The team is expected to welcome back Sam Konstas this week after his Test duties were completed, while Pat Cummins is an outside chance to play.
The superstar quick admitted he is unlikely to travel to Sri Lanka later this month for a Test tour and was signed to the Thunder as a supplementary player.
Cummins hasn't played in the BBL since 2019 but remains closely linked to the Thunder.
David Warner's men sit in second spot on the Big Bash ladder after five matches, with their only loss coming against cross-town rivals the Sixers in a thrilling clash.
