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As Adelaide Strikers improved their draft position in the second round, Wes Agar became the first player in the BBL to be traded as part of a selection exchange in the foreign draft. Agar joined Sydney Thunder.
After eight seasons with the Strikers, Agar is moving to Thunder. After being a crucial member of their assault in previous seasons, he only appeared in four games last year. As part of the deal, Thunder and Strikers exchanged second round selections. Based on the weighted lottery that has not yet been held, Thunder was supposed to be selected in the order of 9 to 12. That pick goes to the Strikers, and Thunder will select between picks 13 and 16 in the second round. Since Thunder finished eighth in the previous season, strikers will have a 40% chance of obtaining pick 9 through the weighted lottery.
Taking 22 wickets at a 20.77 average in the 2020–21 season, Agar, 27, was the Strikers’ best performer. Moreover, in 13 games in 2022–2023 he claimed 18 wickets. However, because Henry Thornton became the main pace bowling option and the Strikers decided to play two legspinners, he was only able to participate in four matches last year.
Agar is still highly regarded by the Australian selectors despite only having played in four games and taking two wickets at an economy rate of 10.38. He was called up as squad cover for Australia’s final Twenty20 International against the West Indies in February.
He relocates to Sydney in the hopes of starting again, as the Thunder try to reorganize their offensive line following a season in which they had trouble scoring points with the ball.
It is the first move made by former New South Wales and Australia Test bowler Trent Copeland in his new role as Thunder General Manager.
“He’s a proven performer in this format and one of the Big Bash’s most likeable guys,” Copeland said. “We want to bring in players who will ultimately perform and win games for the club, but it’s also vitally important for us to attract good people who want to be a part of what we are building here.”
Striker interim General Manager Shaun Williams was understanding of Agar’s decision to request a move.
“We understand Wes’ desire for a fresh opportunity at the Sydney Thunder and wish him all the best with the move,” Williams said.