Sydney Thunder has secured one of Australian cricket’s most exciting young quicks, with the addition of in-form Victorian Harry Hoekstra for BBL|16.
The 20-year-old left-arm quick has enjoyed a remarkable start to the domestic season, most recently claiming match figures of 9/98 against Tasmania in the Sheffield Shield.
That performance followed a standout first-class debut against South Australia in October, where he collected six wickets with the ball while also showing his ability with the bat, scoring 45 in the first innings.
Hoekstra has been equally impressive in the One-Day Cup, claiming his maiden List A five-wicket haul in just his second appearance, finishing with figures of 5/42 against New South Wales at Junction Oval.
The young paceman also boasts representative experience, having been selected in Australia’s Under-19 squad for a tour of India in September 2024.
Hoekstra’s signing takes the Thunder’s squad up to 15 players, joining bowlers Trent Boult, Lockie Ferguson, Daniel Sams, Chris Green, Ryan Hadley and Tanveer Sangha.
Hoekstra said: “I think it’s pretty self-explanatory why I’ve signed with the Sydney Thunder.
“I’m really looking forward to working alongside Freddie and Trent Boult as well. Freddie seems like a great person and hopefully I can learn a few things off him this season.
“I grew up watching Trent on TV. Being a fellow left armer, he’s done so well on the international and franchise stage for so many years.
“This year for me has gone so quick and I’m really happy with the way I’m performing. I’m sure I can continue performing this season, aiming to bowl well with the new ball, try swing it up front and take a few wickets”
Sydney Thunder General Manager Trent Copeland said: “Harry is an incredibly exciting young talent and we’re absolutely thrilled to welcome him to the Thunder.
“What he’s been able to achieve in such a short period of time at domestic level has been outstanding. He’s a young left-arm quick who brings genuine wicket-taking ability, we love the way he attacks the game.
“How awesome is it that he can come in to a squad with Trent Boult and Dan Sams, two other incredible left-armers to learn from.
“With Freddie leading the side, we want to build a squad full of exciting players who are hungry to improve, and Harry certainly fits that mould.
“We can’t wait to see him in lime green and hopefully get the opportunity to make his Big Bash debut this summer.”
The club’s BBL|16 season begins in Canberra on December 16, before returning to ENGIE Stadium for the highly anticipated Sydney Smash on December 19.
