Big Bash League: Spinner Hamish McKenzie leaves Perth Scorchers, joins Melbourne Stars

West Australian wrist-spinner Hamish McKenzie has joined the growing group of players to leave Perth Scorchers for long-time rivals Melbourne Stars.

The 24-year-old joins Marcus Stoinis, Joel Paris, Hilton Cartwright and Brody Couch as WA players on the Stars’ list.

The West Australian reported in June McKenzie was weighing up a two-year deal to join the powerhouse club, which he has now accepted.

The move could send the Scorchers into the market for a second spinner to partner Ashton Agar.

McKenzie played four games in a breakout Big Bash League season last summer, including a three-wicket and best-on-ground performance against his new club at the MCG.

“I can’t wait to get over to Melbourne this summer and be part of the Stars lineup,” he said.

“There are a number of guys from WA in the squad already who are all great leaders so I’m looking forward to learning a lot and helping the Stars push towards finals.”

The lower and slower wickets of the east coast were always likely to better suit the left-arm wrist-spinner. None of McKenzie’s matches last season were at Optus Stadium.

It is understood clubs in Sydney had also made a play for the Subiaco-Floreat product during this off-season.

He battled stress fractures during last summer and was nursed through the BBL but parked for the remainder of the season. He has played one first-class and one one-day game for Western Australia.

The Stars signed three-time Sheffield Shield-winning off-spinner Corey Rocchiccioli before last season, but he is one of a number of players off-contract at the powerhouse club.

Australia’s premier white-ball tweaker, Adam Zampa, left the club in a trade in 2022.

Perth signed 19-year-old fast bowler Mahli Beardman this week on a two-year deal.

Veterans Andrew Tye and Sam Whiteman and paceman Liam Haskett are all out-of-contract with the club.