SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA - DECEMBER 28: Nic Maddinson of the Sixers walks from the field after being dismissed by Michael Neser of the Strikers during the Big Bash League match between the Sydney Sixers and the Adelaide Strikers at Sydney Cricket Ground on December 28, 2017 in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Brett Hemmings/Getty Images)

The Melbourne Stars have begun their rebuild, signing left-hand opening batsman Nic Maddinson to a three-year deal.

Maddinson had a strong summer in BBL07, with a strike rate of 45 that included two scores above 50 and an impressive 14 sixes over the tournament.

Stars batting coach David Hussey was excited to have the 26-year old on board for BBL08.

“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,” Hussey said.

Maddinson praised his time at the Sixers but was eager to join the Stars line-up.

“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. While it was a very difficult decision to leave, I now look forward to taking on new challenges at the Melbourne Stars,” Maddinson added.

“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,” he said.

Melbourne Stars Chief Executive Officer, Clint Cooper, ensures fans that this is the first of several key announcements in the coming months as the club looks to bounce back from a disappointing summer that saw them finish dead last in the Big Bash standings.

It was the first time the Stars missed the Big Bash finals.

“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. 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,” Cooper said.

All-rounder Marcus Stoinis is expected to sign a lucrative deal elsewhere, while former international stars Kevin Pietersen and Luke Wright will also depart the club.