Banned Australian Test cricketer Cameron Bancroft has been named in the Perth Scorchers’ squad for the Big Bash League later this year.

Bancroft is currently serving a nine-month ban for his involvement in the ball-tampering saga during the Test series against South Africa in March. Former captain Steven Smith and vice-captain David Warner were also involved – and given 12-month sanctions.

The 25-year-old Bancroft’s ban will end shortly after Christmas, ensuring his availability for 30 December’s key fixture against the Hobart Hurricanes.

All-rounder Mitchell Marsh, meanwhile, has been appointed captain. He has succeeded former skipper Adam Voges, who has been named Perth’s head coach for the eighth edition of the BBL.

‘To retain our core group of players has been really important for us and we’re pleased everyone has decided to stay,’ said Voges.

‘With Western Australia having such a strong presence in the Australian white-ball teams, it means a lot of our younger players will get more opportunities for the Scorchers, and many of those guys played for us last summer so I’m excited for them to build on that experience.

‘We have wanted to be consistent with our squads across all three formats. So naming Mitch as captain was a good fit. He’s an exciting leader and I’m sure the Scorchers fans are going to be happy.’

England’s David Willey is also contracted to the Scorchers.

Scorchers squad: Ashton Agar, Cameron Bancroft, Jason Behrendorff, Hilton Cartwright, Nathan Coulter-Nile, Cameron Green, Josh Inglis, Michael Klinger, Mitchell Marsh, Shaun Marsh, Joel Paris, Jhye Richardson, Ashton Turner, Andrew Tye, Sam Whiteman, David Willey.

Photo: Ashley Vlotman/Gallo Images