Joe Clarke joins Melbourne Stars as first overseas signing

The Nottinghamshire and Manchester Originals batter signs up for a second campaign in the BBL, after a spell with Perth Scorchers

Melbourne Stars have signed up Joe Clarke as their first international signing ahead of the new Big Bash League season.

The 25-year-old spent last term with Perth Scorchers, scoring 44 runs in three matches.

Clarke enjoyed his most fruitful T20 Blast campaign yet for Notts Outlaws, scoring a competition-best 136.

He added another 127 for Manchester Originals in the inaugural men's Hundred.

“I’m pretty excited about coming down to Melbourne for the Australian summer and getting involved at the Stars,” he said.

“The Stars are known for the quality players that are involved so it was a pretty simple decision for me to commit to this summer and play in front of all the fans in green. 

"I know Melbourne has been through a tough 18 months with COVID so I’m looking forward to being part of the fun that is ahead this summer.”

Head coach David Hussey added: “It’s well known in the UK how talented Joe is and we want his time with the Stars to hopefully lead to even bigger things in the future for him,” Hussey said.

“He’ll be a great fit for our batting line up. He’s a really clean striker of the ball and has scored consistently in the competitions he’s played in the last couple of years. 

"Joe also gives us an option with the wicketkeeping gloves so all those elements will be beneficial for our team shape.”

BBL teams are limited to six overseas players per squad but Covid travel restrictions have meant most recruits have so far been English-based.

Last term, Stars had Zahir Khan, Nicholas Pooran, Dilbar Hussain, Andre Fletcher, and Haris Rauf at their disposal. Jonny Bairstow had signed up but pulled out after being recalled by England's Test team.

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