Quantcast

Doran re-signs with Thunder for BBL|05

Tassie-bound teenager opts to stay with Western Sydney franchise

Impressive teenager Jake Doran has signed a two-year contract extension with Sydney Thunder.

The wicketkeeper-batsman, who dominated for the Australia Under 19s during the just-completed carnival against England in Perth, was originally signed to a rookie deal in BBL|03, before joining the squad on a full contract last season.

“I always wanted to continue playing for the Thunder,” Doran said.

“They gave me my first opportunity, so I really wanted to stay. The experience of being around guys like Mike Hussey and Jacques Kallis was priceless.”

The left-hander became the youngest player in KFC T20 Big Bash League history when he was selected for Thunder’s final game of BBL|04 against Sydney Sixers at the SCG shortly after turning 18.

“It was pretty nerve-wracking walking out in front of 36,000 people,” Doran said. “But after a few balls I didn't think much about it.

“I'll never forget the experience and am incredibly thankful for it.

"I think we'll have a really strong BBL|05, I can see us starting to win some of those close games next season as we’ve got a great bunch of guys and a great coach.”

The 18-year old was named Player of the Series in Australia U19s’ series victory against England, scoring 102 and 82 as well as 169 in a 4-day Youth Test at the start of April in Perth.

“We are delighted that Jake has chosen to re-sign with the Thunder,” said Sydney Thunder General Manager Nick Cummins.

“We’ve invested heavily in his development and believe he is fast becoming one of the standout young talents in Australian cricket. “

Doran will spend the first half of the winter playing club cricket in England, where he will train at the Elite International Cricket Academy in Hampshire after being named one of five 2015 Kerry Packer Foundation scholars.

Article courtesy Sydney Thunder