Australia batsman Kurtis Patterson joins Perth Scorchers ahead of Big Bash

The Australia batsman, who was left out of the Ashes squad despite making an unbeaten century in his second Test against Sri Lanka, moves to Perth having spent the last six years at Sydney Thunder

Perth Scorchers have signed Kurtis Patterson for the next three editions of the Big Bash.

The Australia batsman, who was left out of the Ashes squad despite making an unbeaten century in his second Test against Sri Lanka, moves to Perth having spent the last six years playing for Sydney Thunder.

The 26-year-old began his Big Bash career on the other side of Sydney, where he briefly represented Sydney Sixers.

Patterson did not play a game in last year’s competition despite enjoying a landmark season that saw him make his Test bow. However, a poor tour of England with Australia A resulted in him being left out of the eventual Ashes reckoning.

His short-format record is comparatively poor, however; Patterson has never made a domestic T20 fifty, with a top score of just 48 and an average of 19.21.

“I am really excited to be heading to the west and joining a successful club,” Patterson said. “The opportunity to gain different insights from new coaches and playing on the fast wicket at Optus (Perth) Stadium were both big factors in deciding to sign with the Scorchers. I know the club has a great culture and I can't wait to be a part of the team.”

Patterson’s arrival comes on the back of a winter of change for Perth; Shaun Marsh and Hilton Cartwright have both left for different Melbourne franchises, while Michael Klinger has retired.

Former Australia batsman and Scorchers coach Adam Voges added: “We have seen first-hand how talented Kurtis is, he's scored a lot of runs against us in all formats over the past few seasons.

“After losing some experience at the top of the order we identified that as an area to bolster. Kurtis is a quality player and I believe he will play the Optus Stadium wicket really well with its extra pace and bounce.”

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