BBL: Melbourne Stars make important signing ahead of the 2025-26 season

The Melbourne Stars’ stable off-season is growing stronger with an important player penning an extension.

The “proven wicket-taker” is back.

Experienced seamer Mark Steketee has penned a one-season extension with the Melbourne Stars ahead of the 2025-26 season.

Steketee has captured 104 Big Bash wickets at an average of 23 across his 78 appearances with the Stars and Brisbane Heat.

Stars high performance manager, and ex-Australian quick, Clint McKay said Steketee was an important piece of the Stars’ fast-bowling stocks.

“Full credit to Mark, he worked his way into the tournament and then capitalised on his opportunity in the attack,” McKay said.

Melbourne Stars have re-signed fast bowler Mark Steketee. Picture: Robert Cianflone/Getty Images

“He is a proven wicket-taker in the BBL and a fierce competitor and hopefully he can take the momentum and belief from last season into this year.

“We’re really pleased with our fast-bowling stocks with Mark complementing Peter Siddle, Tom Curran, Scott Boland and Liam Hatcher.”

Steketee said the Stars set the benchmark for the upcoming season with their red-hot run to the finals last campaign.

“I’ve loved my last couple of years at the Stars and the MCG is an amazing place to play when you’re on a roll like the team was last year,” Steketee said.

“Hopefully, the boys can keep that momentum going and get back to the finals again in BBL|15.”

Steketee’s signing follows the two-year extension given to coach Peter Moores earlier this off-season.