After retiring from first class cricket in 2010, the former NSW skipper has kept his involvement in the game alive by playing Sydney Grade Cricket as captain of Sydney Cricket Club.

Now, Thornely is one of a number of former stars — others include Shane Warne (Melbourne Stars), Matthew Hayden (Brisbane Heat) and Brett Lee (Sydney Sixers) — who are being rejuvenated by the popular eight-team Twenty20 domestic league.

“It’s a bit of a fairytale for me playing again,” the 33-year-old said.

“Cricket’s more of a hobby for me now.

“It’s a nice way to end my career, this Twenty20 cricket.”

And, after helping the side to the BBL grand final, Thornely sees no reason to leave the party.

“There’s no reason for me not to put my hand up to play again next year,” the former East Albury all-rounder said.

“I didn’t doubt that I could perform but when you are away for about 12 months from domestic cricket it gets hard.

“Mentally you’ve just got to be up for it.”

The BBL has not only rejuvenated the sport in Australia but it’s given older players the chance to continue to play at the highest level.

Thornely, who is a sponsorship manager at Weet-Bix, said it was the perfect format for the semi-retired.

“I think the major success factor has been bringing back the legends of the game,” he said.

“I think it’s improved the standard of cricket across the country.

“The timing has been good.

“Everyone is holidaying or in a festive mood.

“The biggest thing that’s surprised me is the female fan base that’s growing.

“I’ve had a number of conversations with a variety of people who are getting right into it.

“I’m just hopeful that international teams can free up some time for us to get some of the best players in the world.”