MELBOURNE: Axed England batsman Kevin Pietersen joined the Melbourne Stars yesterday to be the highest-profile signing of the new season of Australia’s Big Bash League (BBL).
Pietersen, who was sacked by England in February following the 5-0 Ashes drubbing in the winter tour to Australia, has signed a two-year deal with the Cameron White-led team of the Twenty20 league, the Stars said on their website (www.melbournestars.com.au).
“Joining the Melbourne Stars was an easy choice for me when you look at the players we have and the amazing off field support staff, and don’t forget our home ground, the MCG (Melbourne Cricket Ground),” Pietersen said.
A prolific and entertaining batsman known for his trademark switch-hit stroke, 34-year-old Pietersen is scheduled to make his Stars debut on December 20 against Hobart Hurricanes at the MCG.
Pietersen, available full-time for T20 events, led the Delhi Daredevils in this year’s Indian Premier League and will play for St Lucia Zouks in the Caribbean Premier League.
REUTERS
