Jonny Bairstow withdraws from Big Bash, Melbourne Stars sign Andre Fletcher as replacement

Bairstow, who hit a match-winning knock of 86 not out in a T20I win over South Africa less than a week ago, is reportedly set to be recalled to his country’s Test squad for an upcoming tour of Sri Lanka

Melbourne Stars have signed West Indies batsman Andre Fletcher as a replacement for Jonny Bairstow, who has withdrawn from his upcoming Big Bash stint.

The England batsman, who hit a match-winning knock of 86 not out in a T20I win over South Africa less than a week ago, is reportedly set to be recalled to his country’s Test squad for an upcoming tour of Sri Lanka.

Fletcher, 33, was part of Kieron Pollard’s side in their recently finished T20I series against New Zealand along with Nicholas Pooran, who has also signed up to represent last season’s Big Bash runners-up.

Fletcher has played in the Caribbean Premier League, Canada Global T20, Pakistan Super League and Bangladesh Premier League, though this deal will see him make his first appearance in the Big Bash.

Fletcher said: “I’m really looking forward to coming over to the Melbourne Stars and being part of what should be an exciting season ahead. Hopefully I can bring my brand of batting and recent form to the Stars during the BBL.”

Melbourne Stars head coach David Hussey added: “We’re naturally disappointed Jonny won’t be able to link up with us this season but we wish him well on his recall and England’s winter tours.

“We’re glad Andre was in a position to join us and he’ll bring plenty of power and entertainment at the top of the batting order.

“Andre is a former T20 World Cup winner with the West Indies so he knows what it takes to succeed in major tournaments and I’m confident he’ll be a great asset around our group.”

Gift a subscription to The Cricketer this Christmas and choose your free gift (a £20 John Lewis gift card or copy of Bob Willis: A Cricketer & A Gentleman). Subscribe here