Former Windies all-rounder Dwayne Bravo has inked a deal with the Big Bash League (BBL) franchise, Melbourne Stars for the upcoming season of the BBL, making the switch from cross-town rivals Melbourne Renegades. Bravo, who recently announced his retirement from international cricket, will once again join hands with his Chennai Super Kings coach Stephen Fleming.

Talking about his association, Bravo said, “It’s almost Big Bash time again and I’m very excited to be representing the Melbourne Stars. I’ve worked with Stephen Fleming before, he’s a great coach and I’m sure we can do great things together at the Stars. The MCG is where it all started for me in Australia and I can’t wait to call it home over the summer. I want all the fans to come down and support Team Green on New Year’s Day when we take on my old team in Melbourne Derby.”

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Stars had earlier signed Nepal’s legspinner Sandeep Lamichhane, who will share one import position with England’s legspinner, Matt Parkinson. Bravo will be available for the entire season and will take the second and final overseas spot for Stars. They have reached the semi-finals six times but are yet to win the trophy.

However, Stars only managed two wins last year and had a forgettable season. They have replaced Rob Quiney, John Hastings and James Faulkner with former Sydney Sixers batsman Nic Maddinson, and Victorians Jonathan Merlo and Travis Dean. Fleming reckons Bravo can be that game-changer for them and will provide great balance to the squad that’s filled with youngsters.

Talking about the all-rounder, Stephen said, “I’ve worked with Dwayne for a number of years in the IPL and have always thought he’d be a great addition to the Stars dressing room. He can be lethal with the ball, plus come in at five or six in the batting order and add some real star power. I think he’s been consistently good in the Big Bash over the years, and also holds the record for most wickets in T20, has played 410 T20 matches and his leadership, having captained Trinbago to this year’s CPL title, will be a huge asset around the Club.”