MELBOURNE – The Melbourne Renegades have announced the signing of powerful Jamaican all-rounder Andre Russell for the upcoming KFC T20 Big Bash League season.
A member of the West Indies One-Day and Twenty20 teams, Russell is seen as one of the most exciting talents to emerge from the Caribbean in recent times. He will join West Indian teammate Dwayne Bravo at Etihad Stadium.
Russell is a damaging all-rounder with his fast bowling and power-hitting abilities.
“I’m really looking forward to getting to Australia and playing a key role for the Melbourne Renegades this season,” Russell said.
“The Renegades have a talented squad this year with a good mix of big hitters and great bowlers, so I want to contribute to the team in both areas this season.
“The Melbourne crowds are well-known for being passionate about sport and I’m excited to experience that atmosphere at Etihad Stadium.”
Melbourne Renegades head coach Simon Helmot said Russell was an excellent addition to the team and a boost to the club’s bowling stocks.
“We’ve got some really solid batting talent across the line-up and we were keen to add an explosive all-rounder within our squad.
“Andre fits that bill and increases our bowling options with the likes of Peter Siddle, Nathan Rimmington, Fawad Ahmed, Aaron O’Brien and James Pattinson as he continues his return from injury.”
The Melbourne Renegades will begin their campaign on December 19 against the Sydney Sixers at the SCG.
The team will kick off their home matches on December 30 at Etihad Stadium against the Sydney Thunder. (WICB)
Renegades squad: Aaron Finch (c), Peter Siddle, James Pattinson, Matthew Wade, Dwayne Bravo, Jesse Ryder, Callum Ferguson, Ben Rohrer, Tom Cooper, Peter Nevill, Alex Doolan, Fawad Ahmed, Nathan Rimmington, Andre Russell, Aaron O’Brien, Tom Beaton, Matthew Short, Nick Winter, Jayde Herrick.