English cricket star Tom Curran has reportedly elected to switch to the Melbourne Stars for the upcoming Big Bash League season, while West Indian Shamar Joseph is also considering a stint in the competition.
While a majority of international players for the BBL are picked through the player draft, teams are allowed to sign one international player prior to the draft in Cricket Australia's latest attempt to ensure interest in the BBL remains relevant while competitions in South Africa and the United Arab Emirates run at the same time.
Curran, who has played recent seasons with the Sydney Sixers, is understood to have signed a two-year deal with the Melbourne Stars.
A News Corp report suggests the men in green were keen on his signature, where he will link back up with star Australian all-rounder Glenn Maxwell, having previously played with him in the IPL.
Curran himself told the publication he was keen on being based in Melbourne.
“I'm really looking to getting out to Australia in a few months and playing at the MCG which will be a great honour to call my home ground,” Curran said.
“You want to come in as an overseas player and have an impact and help win games, it'll be a joy not having to bowl to Maxwell and (Marcus) Stoinis.
“When spending two months away from home especially over the Christmas period, if there is anywhere I want to do it other than at home with the family, I'd definitely say Australia is right up there.”
Meanwhile, Joseph, who was a key player for the West Indies when they toured Australia for Test matches last summer, is also weighing up a stint in the BBL.
It's likely however he would be only able to serve as a replacement player at the back-end of the tournament given the West Indies host Bangladesh during December in Test cricket.
It's unclear at this stage whether any BBL clubs will show interest in Joseph.
Fixtures for the BBL are yet to be announced, however, the season is due to commence in December.