Sydney Thunder sign Khawaja

In an unusual turn of events, the Sydney Thunder have announced the signing of Usman Khawaja a day after another Big Bash franchise, the Perth Scorchers, claimed to have signed him.

The Scorchers were under the impression they had reached an agreement with Khawaja's management on July 6 but were subsequently told that the player was still considering his options and could join another BBL team closer to his Sydney home.

Andrew Scotford, the WACA cricket manager, said there had been a "miscommunication" with Khawaja before the batsman left for Zimbabwe to join the Australia A tour, which is why they were forced to backtrack after claiming they had signed him on Friday.

The Thunder, who will play at Sydney's Olympic stadium, issued a statement confirming that Khawaja will suit up for them. "I am honoured to have the chance to be playing for the Sydney Thunder this season," Khawaja said in the statement. "I have been very impressed by the calibre of players already in the squad and we are looking forward to making our mark in the first season of the Big Bash League."