BBL 2023-24: Joel Paris move to Melbourne Stars
Joel Paris
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He officially joined the Melbourne Stars for the upcoming Big Bash League. This will be his third team in the competition, as he previously played for the Perth Scorchers and the Hobart Hurricanes. Paris had an exceptional season in the previous edition of the Sheffield Shield, which caught the attention of the Stars. Considering their disappointing performance in the last season, they were particularly eager to have him on their side.
While his performance in T20 matches has been underwhelming, there are concerns regarding his record in this format. Over the past decade, Paris has only participated in 37 matches in the BBL, without making a significant impact. Nevertheless, since Trent Boult and Luke Wood’s return has not been confirmed, the Stars have decided to strengthen their pace department by signing Paris for the upcoming season.
“We have recognized the need to strengthen our team with the addition of left-arm bowlers who possess the skill to swing the ball. It is truly fantastic for our squad to have someone like Joel, who brings a wealth of experience. Joel has been an integral part of a highly successful system in Perth for several years, thus understanding the essence of success. We have high hopes that he will be able to replicate that success during his time as a member of the Stars,” conveyed Blair Crouch, the general manager of Stars.
In the meantime, the Stars have added Scott Boland to their roster for the upcoming season. The talented Australian cricketer, known for his expertise in red-ball matches, has had an outstanding year in international cricket. He is eagerly anticipating the opportunity to carry forward his impressive form in the BBL. Furthermore, it is anticipated that Nathan Coulter Nile will prolong his association with the Stars for an additional year.
Brisbane Heat, the previous year’s finalists, have extended their contract with Marnus Labuschagne for another season through the BBL‘s new supplementary list, known as the marquee. This innovative addition allows BBL teams to recruit unlimited centrally contracted players as long as the total cost is within the AUD$3 million salary cap for their standard 18-player roster.
Head coach Wade Seccombe expressed his satisfaction in having Marnus join the team, as he believes that Marnus has had a significant influence in the team’s dynamics in the past and is pleased that this will continue in a similar fashion.
“Marnus’ influence on a game, a season, and the entire team has been immense. Even if we have him for just a few matches, his re-signing was given top priority,” commented Wade Seccombe.
