Russell returns to BBL after almost five years

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Andre Russell, the star all-rounder of the West Indies, is set to return to Australia's domestic T20 event, the Big Bash League, after almost five years (BBL).

Russell will join the injury-plagued Melbourne Stars for five games and will make his season debut against Sydney Thunder at the MCG on Friday (December 10).

The 33-year-old Thunder forward appeared in 19 BBL games over three seasons, with his most recent appearance coming against the Stars in early January 2017. After injuring his hamstring in that match, he was stretchered away from the Spotless Stadium.

The possibility to play at the MCG enticed the Windies T20 great to the Stars, he claimed before of his new club's debut.

“I always try to test my skills and it’s a big ground – when I signed guys were saying ‘see how many sixes you can hit’,” Russell said in his interview to Channel 7.

“Once you’re in the moment, you may hit one into the stands on one of the big sides. I’m just here to experience as well and showcase my talent.

“(I’m) happy to be part of the Big Bash once more, it’s been a couple of years, so I’m looking forward to it.

“The guys went down in the first game and I’m definitely here to give the guys a boost and hopefully I can contribute and help them cross the line,” he added.

An independent anti-doping commission banned the Jamaican-born from all forms of cricket in February 2017 for violating the whereabouts clause, and he has not been to Australia since.

Russell has totaled 296 runs in 17 innings pitched in the BBL, with a strike rate of 166.29. He's also taken 23 wickets at a 7.97 economy rate.