Kevin Pietersen joins Melbourne Stars as Big Bash's marquee man

16:9. Kevin Pietersen. Melbourne Stars

In a deal announced Monday night, the sacked England batsman will receive a rumoured $200,000 package from the Stars and Cricket Australia for his six-week stint from late December.

Broadcaster channel Ten will also sweeten the deal, according to reports.

"Joining the Melbourne Stars was an easy choice for me when you look at the players we have and the amazing off-field support staff, and don't forget our home ground, the MCG," Pietersen said in a statement.

Sydney Sixers also chased Pietersen's signature, but it's believed the South African-born 34-year-old's connection to Shane Warne drew him to the Stars.

Pietersen, an outcast in the England camp, was sacked following last summer's Ashes whitewash.

His dispute with the ECB made news again this week, with Pietersen making another call for Cook to be sacked as captain, saying he was only still in the job because it would be "yet another PR disaster" to remove him now.

While he was often disliked by team-mates during his international career, Stars skipper Cameron White labelled Pietersen a good friend and respected competitor over many years.

"He's a tremendous addition to the squad and will fit in really well, and he'll hopefully provide us the edge to go deeper into the tournament this year," White said in a press release.

Pietersen will be available to play every round, as well as the BBL finals.

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