Veteran Australian all-rounder Glenn Maxwell has committed his future to the Melbourne Stars after signing a fresh contract that will keep him at the club for at least the next two Big Bash League seasons. The deal was finalised just hours before the league’s contracting embargo came into force.
The extension ensures that Maxwell, currently the third-highest run-scorer in BBL history, will remain a part of the tournament well into the latter stages of his career, potentially playing until close to his 40s. For the Stars, the move signals stability and continuity as they continue their pursuit of a long-awaited maiden BBL title.
Despite being one of the competition’s foundation franchises, Melbourne Stars remain the only team yet to lift the trophy, having suffered a Knockout-stage exit to the Hobart Hurricanes in the most recent season. Maxwell himself endured a rare lean patch, scoring just 76 runs across eight innings and picking up two wickets, numbers that fell well below his usual high standards.
Even so, the Stars were keen to retain their talisman, particularly in the face of strong interest from Sydney Thunder, who had tabled a lucrative offer in a bid to prise him away.
“The Melbourne Stars have been a massive part of my cricket career, and I'm really passionate about this team having success,” Maxwell said, as quoted by ESPNcricinfo. “I think this group is building towards something special, and I’m confident we’re in a position to challenge for the title over the next two seasons.”
The Stars also locked in promising left-hander Campbell Kellaway, extending his contract by at least two more seasons. Kellaway scored 172 runs at an average of 21.50 last season, offering valuable stability at the top of the order.
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Stars high-performance manager Clint McKay highlighted the importance of retaining both players. “Glenn has been one of the best T20 players in the world for a long period of time, and his commitment to the Stars is incredibly valuable for us,” McKay said. “Signing Campbell was just as important. He brings great stability to our top order, proved himself at this level last season, and I have no doubt he’ll score plenty of runs for us in the years ahead.”
With the contracting embargo set to begin later on Tuesday, January 27, the BBL’s official player movement window will run from January 28 to February 5. During this period, clubs will be allowed to sign off-contract players and complete trades ahead of the upcoming season.
