Cameron White signs with Melbourne Stars

SYDNEY: Australian batsman Cameron White Tuesday re-signed to the Melbourne Stars for the domestic Twenty20 competition, but stepped down as captain in a move which could see Shane Warne named skipper.

Spin bowling legend Warne played with the Stars last season in Australia's Big Bash League but has yet to commit to a new deal, although Stars chairman of selectors Ian Chappell said the 42-year-old had helped put the team together.

"He has been very helpful in recruiting some of the players," Chappell said.

White returns to the Stars after stints with the Indian Premier League, where the middle-order batsman played for the Deccan Chargers, and Britain's Twenty20 competition.

The 28-year-old has also regained selection to the Australian Twenty20 squad to play against Pakistan in the United Arab Emirates in September.

"I enjoyed my time in the IPL and over in England just playing," White said.

"That was probably the determining factor in maybe it might be a good thing to just come out and enjoy playing at the MCG with the Stars without the extra pressures of captaincy.

"Hopefully that helps me get back to the Australian teams where I think I belong."

David Hussey, Robert Quiney, Matthew Wade, Peter Handscomb and English all-rounder Luke Wright were named along with White, most of them on three-year deals. Keeper Wade and Handscomb have signed on for one-year contracts.

"I've been very impressed by the loyalty of players to the Stars with players like Cameron White, David Hussey, Rob Quiney and Luke Wright all signing long term agreements," Chappell said.

"Along with the signing of Brad Hodge and Glenn Maxwell and the addition of a promising young player in Peter Handscomb, the Stars are well placed for the season with a strong and versatile batting line-up."