In a dramatic turn of events during the 22nd match of the Big Bash League 2024-25, Sydney Thunder’s Daniel Sams had to be stretchered off the field following a collision with teammate Cameron Bancroft. The match, held at Perth Stadium, saw the Perth Scorchers batting at 126/4 in the 15th over when the incident occurred.
The collision happened during the power surge in the 15th over when Lockie Ferguson bowled to Cooper Connolly. Connolly struck the ball high over square leg, prompting both Sams and Bancroft to converge on the catch. Unfortunately, both players, focused on the ball, failed to notice each other and collided violently. Their faces slammed into each other, leaving both players on the ground and unable to get up immediately.
Medical staff quickly rushed to the scene as Bancroft held his bleeding nose and Sams remained motionless. While Bancroft managed to walk off the field with the physio, Sams required a stretcher, raising concerns about the severity of his injury. The incident left players and spectators visibly shaken, with both skippers, David Warner and Ashton Turner, engaging in discussions, possibly about a replacement. Liam Hatcher was seen warming up on the sidelines as a potential substitute for Sams.
A horrific collision between Daniel Sams and Chris Green during the BBL. Hoping it's nothing serious. (Astro Cricket)#BBL #DanielSams #ChrisGreen #BigBashLeague #Cricket pic.twitter.com/v4ke391Rsw
— Fantasy Khiladi (@_fantasykhiladi) January 3, 2025
The Scorchers players and the Thunder team gathered near the ropes, displaying genuine concern for their injured teammates. Fans across the cricketing fraternity are hoping for a speedy recovery for Sams and Bancroft.