Adam Zampa is set for a shock exit from the Melbourne Stars, with the Big Bash franchise confirming their intention to trade the Australian spinner next season.
The 30-year-old has been with the Stars since 2015 and has become one of the franchise's most consistent and high-profile players, but has been unable to help them to a maiden title.
Zampa captained the side during the recent BBL|12 campaign, with the Stars finishing last on the ladder and struggling due to the absence of some key players including Glenn Maxwell.
But his lengthy tenure at the Stars may be coming to an end, with the club announcing a potential trade with cross-town rivals the Renegades prior to next season.
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"The Melbourne Stars intend to enter into negotiations with Adam Zampa that will allow him to be traded to the Melbourne Renegades during the BBL|13 trade period," a club statement said.
"The clubs and players have exchanged non-binding correspondence which would allow Sam Harper to join the Stars, in exchange for Adam Zampa when the official trade window opens.
"No trade can be processed, and binding agreements between clubs cannot be made, during Cricket Australia’s contracting embargo period."
Sam Haprer would fix some of the Stars batting woes, but the departure of Zampa would eliminate a class bowling option and one of the best white-ball spinners in world cricket.
Stars general manager Blair Crouch believes the move would allow the club to add more depth to their roster.
“This trade would allow us to target several other quality players," he said.
"We look forward to making a number of announcements regarding new signings once the contracting window re-opens.”
The recent Big Bash season concluded with the Scorchers taking out a record fifth title last weekend.