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THE Melbourne Stars have made their first move in rebuilding for the BBL|08 season, securing left-hand opening bat Nowra’s Nic Maddinson on a three-year deal. Maddinson proved his big hitting prowess in BBL|07, impressing Stars batting coach David Hussey with a strike rate of 145, two scores above 50, and an impressive 14 sixes over the tournament. “Nic has been a consistent performer in the BBL for the past seven seasons and, with the departure of Kevin Pietersen, we knew he would be the perfect fit for our new-look batting line up next season,” Hussey said. “With the MCG as our home ground, we need batters up the top of the order who can hit big, clear those boundaries and really attack the power play, which Nic has proven he can do. “We look forward to seeing him in action for the Stars next season.” Maddinson paid tribute to his time at the Sixers while looking forward to his future at the Stars. “I have very much enjoyed my time at the Sydney Sixers over the last several years and am very grateful for the opportunities they have given me,” Maddinson said. “While it was a very difficult decision to leave, I now look forward to taking on new challenges at the Melbourne Stars. “I have some good friends in the Stars squad and I’ve heard great things about the culture that Stephen Fleming, the coaching staff and the leadership team has created. “My focus will be on helping the Melbourne Stars win the BBL.” Melbourne Stars Chief Executive, Clint Cooper, wants members and fans to know that this is the first of several key announcements in coming months as the club looks to rebuild and secure a talented list of players ahead of next season. “Maddinson comes to the Stars in outstanding form with the bat and was our first choice when looking for a top order batter who can attack the power play,” Cooper said. “We know Nic’s big hitting style is perfect for the MCG and he’ll be a popular addition within the playing group and with our committed team green fan base.”

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