Melbourne Stars Sign Joe Burns For the Next Three Seasons Of The BBL

Melbourne Stars have brought in Joe Burns for the upcoming three seasons of the Big Bash League (BBL).  The 31-year-old will leave his franchise of nine years, Brisbane Heat, to compete for the Stars. It was his hometown and he had made 59 appearances for the team.

The contract Burns signed with Melbourne will last till the 2023-24 season. He was excited about the prospect of playing for a top side. His signing strengthens the Melbourne top-order, something that will relieve the pressure on all-rounder Marcus Stoinis.

Following the announcement, Burns stated: “It was obviously a difficult decision leaving the Heat after being there for so long, however, I am ready for a new challenge at the Stars. The Melbourne Stars have been a very strong team over the years and I’m excited to join the team and I can’t wait to get stuck into training with my new teammates.“

Melbourne Stars coach David Hussey happy about Joe Burns’ signing

Head coach David Hussey was expectedly joyous after Joe Burns’ signing. He mentioned that Burns’ experience will add some much-needed depth to the batting order. Burns has scored 1192 runs in 59 matches for the Brisbane Heat at an average of 24.54. Given his recent bit of form, he will provide the stability needed for his new franchise.

“We are excited to welcome Joe to our squad for the next three seasons, especially given the experience and batting depth he adds to the squad. We are building a strong group with a lot of star power so hopefully, we can play in front of our home fans and make it a special summer,” the younger Hussey brother claimed.

Burns has shown a tendency to flourish as a finisher as well. This allows him to be played as a floater. Although he has been going through a rough patch internationally, Burns had a stellar season for the Heat the last time around which propelled them to the grand finals.

Melbourne Stars BBL 11 squad (up until now):

Joe Burns, Hilton Cartwright, Nathan Coulter-Nile, Seb Gotch, Liam Hatcher, Clint Hinchliffe, Nick Larkin, Glenn Maxwell (c), Tom O’Connell, Billy Stanlake, Marcus Stoinis, Adam Zampa