41-year-old coach comes out of retirement in BBL 2024-25, hammers two sixes and takes a wicket

In a surprising incident in the Big Bash League (BBL) 2024-25 season, the coach of a team came out of retirement to play a game in the ongoing tournament. 41-year-old Dan Christian, coach of Sydney Thunder, came out of retirement to play in his side's clash against the Brisbane Heat on Monday (January 6).

Christian, who is the assistant coach of Sydney Thunder, was forced to reverse his retirement and take the field during their BBL 2024-25 clash. Injuries and player unavailabilities have hit Thunder this season. To make matters worse, Cameron Bancroft and Daniel Sams were both ruled out after their horrible on-field collision.

Christian was drafted into their playing XI. Having retired from professional cricket two years ago, the 41-year-old all-rounder made a stunning return to the field.

First up, the right-hander played a quick-fire unbeaten 23-run knock off 15 deliveries. He also slammed two sixes, including a 92-meter maximum off Xavier Bartlett. The all-rounder rolled down the clock, also bowling four overs. He was exceptional with the ball, giving away just 25 runs and accounting for the wicket of Nathan McSweeney.

He also became the sixth oldest player to play in the BBL with his return, featuring for Sydney Thunder aged 41 years and 247 days.

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A return to the BBL was never entirely off the table, says Dan Christian

The 41-year-old stated that a return to the Big Bash or any other T20 franchise league was not completely off the table for him.

“I made the decision during the off season that a return to the BBL or any other T20 leagues was never entirely off the table for me,” Christian was quoted as saying by The Indian Express.

He also added that his body feels great and that he was prepared if any opportunity would come by. Christian also expressed his gratitude for getting the opportunity to take the field again. Further, he wished Bancroft and Sams a speedy recovery.

“The body feels great, and I wanted to ensure I was prepared if an opportunity arose. The incident with Cam Bancroft and Dan Sams was extremely unfortunate, but I’m really grateful for the opportunity it’s presented. I wish them all the best with their recoveries and hope they’ll be back on the park soon," he concluded.