Former Proteas captain Faf du Plessis will play for defending champions the Perth Scorchers in the 2022-23 Big Bash League.
Australia’s T20 franchise tournament will take place from 13 December to 4 February.
Du Plessis, who replaces Englishman Laurie Evans in the Scorchers squad, is expected to be available for the first seven games of the BBL. The 38-year-old will then return to South Africa to captain the Joburg Super Kings in the inaugural SA20 league, which starts on 10 January.
“I’m really excited to be signing with the Perth Scorchers,” said Du Plessis, who played for the Melbourne Renegades in the 2012-13 BBL.
“I think the first thing that jumps to mind is that Perth are four-time champions, which is very impressive.
“Any player who plays around the world wants to win competitions, so it’s a great franchise to be part of. I’m also keen to come in and learn.
“I think it’s important to learn from other people and organisations and find out why they’re successful. I’m also excited to share my experiences and the things I’ve learned, and hopefully, that can be a great combination.
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“Looking from afar, it looks like Optus [Stadium in Perth] is probably the quickest wicket in the world. Watching the World Cup, the bounce looked very, very steep,” he added.
“Obviously, the wickets in South Africa and Australia are quite similar with more pace and bounce than spin, so it is something I’ve grown up with and I’m looking forward to playing in Perth this summer.”
Believe it! @faf1307 in orange ?? #MADETOUGH #BBL12 pic.twitter.com/A4iwEnPnLw
— Perth Scorchers (@ScorchersBBL) November 30, 2022