Our T20 Development Academy Program

The Sydney Thunder T20 Development Academy is designed for young players aged 10–16 looking to gain an edge in their development.

Built on the same principles used by our elite senior teams, the program gives aspiring cricketers in New South Wales the skills, insight, and confidence needed to succeed at all levels of cricket they will play.

Participants train under the guidance of experienced Thunder T20 Youth Academy coaches, developing across all aspects of the game - not just batting and bowling - while accessing world‑class facilities such as Cricket Central in Silverwater.

How to Register
The Sydney Thunder T20 Development Academy is designed for aspiring cricketers who are ready to take their game to the next level.

To ensure the best fit, participants cannot purchase packages directly. Instead, participants are invited to register their interest, after which our Sydney Thunder T20 Youth Academy Team will contact you to discuss cricket experience and confirm suitability.

This process helps us maintain the quality of the program, while ensuring every participant is placed in the right pathway to thrive.

Sydney Thunder T20 Development Academy Program Hubs
In 2026, our Thunder Hubs will be based at two outstanding facilities: the world‑class Cricket Central in Silverwater and the newly opened Raby Indoor Cricket Centre in Campbelltown.

Programs at Cricket Central will run on Monday and Wednesday evenings, while programs at Raby Indoor Cricket Centre will take place on Monday evenings.

At Sydney Thunder, we believe future stars are built through more than just cricket skills. Our T20 Youth Academy takes a holistic approach. Participants learn how to train like professionals, think like leaders, and carry themselves with pride both on and off the field. It’s about shaping well-rounded young athletes who are ready for every challenge, in cricket and in life. These are the aspects of the game we develop:

Program Format
The Sydney Thunder T20 Development Academy Program runs across six‑weeks each School Term, with one two-hour session per week. Delivered by the Thunder T20 Youth Academy Coaching Panel, the program combines both practical and theoretical sessions to ensure players develop their skills on and off the field. With a 1:6 coach‑to‑participant ratio, every player benefits from personalised guidance and support throughout their journey.

Program Options
We offer a range of program formats, including male-only, mixed, and female-only programs. Our aim is to provide opportunities that suit different players and pathways, ensuring flexibility while catering to diverse participation.

Coaching Excellence
Our T20 Development Academy Programs are led by a handpicked panel of Sydney Thunder T20 Youth Academy coaches, under the guidance of our soon-to-be-announced Academy Director. Together, we deliver a coaching experience that sets the standard for youth cricket development.

Holistic Play Development
Our holistic approach covers all aspects of cricket: skills, technique, mental resilience, tactics, and physical preparation. This isn't just about playing well – it's about thinking like a cricketer.

Inspiration from the Pros
Special guest presenters from Sydney Thunder, including professional players, share their journeys, insights, and tips. These sessions inspire participants to take their game to new heights.

Training Beyond the Field
Through the SLOCOACH digital hub, participants receive a personalised coaching plan delivered by T20 Youth Academy coaches. This allows players to continue their development outside of face‑to‑face sessions. SLOCOACH also provides exclusive resources, including videos, articles, and workshops, to extend knowledge and sharpen skills.

End of Season Matchplay
Participants in the T20 Development Academy program will have the opportunity to represent the Thunder T20 Youth Academy in a T20 match against the Sydney Sixers T20 Youth Academy at the end of 2026 - a chance to cap off the year and showcase their progress.

Membership Benefits
Every participant in the T20 Development Academy receives a double full‑season General Admission Sydney Thunder membership - one adult and one junior. This provides access to all home matches at ENGIE Stadium, full member benefits, and the chance to truly belong to the Thunder family.

New Balance Academy Kit
Every participant will receive a Sydney Thunder T20 Development Academy training kit (including a shirt, shorts and cap) designed by New Balance, so they look the part!

Program Pricing - Choose the Option That Best Suits Your Pathway
We offer two flexible options designed to suit different player pathways:

• 6‑Month Program - $1,255
  Access to any 2 out of 4 school term programs in 2026, giving you the flexibility to choose the terms that best fit your schedule.
• 12‑Month Program - $2,259
  Access to all 4 school term programs across 2026, with a 10% discount compared to the 6‑month option - that's over $250 off!

Both options deliver the full Academy experience - expert coaching, exclusive resources, membership benefits, and the chance to be part of the Thunder family.