Villani leaves Perth Scorchers after four years, where she played 58 games and amassed 1706 runs. © Getty

Elyse Villani will play for the Melbourne Stars in the upcoming season of the Women's Big Bash League. Villani leaves Perth Scorchers after four years, where she played 58 games and amassed 1706 runs.

"It's exciting to come home to Melbourne for the WBBL. I feel as though the Stars is a good fit for me as I really like the culture they have developed," Villani said on Wednesday (June 12). "I can't wait to join up with the entire squad come the start of the season and am eager to see where this team can go, both on the field and how we can continue to build on a strong culture off the field.

"I'd really like to thank the Perth Scorchers for the past four seasons and am now looking forward to the next stage of my career."

Melbourne Stars Coach, David Hemp, welcomed her move given the opener's experience across formats. She is currently the third-highest run-getter in the tournament, behind Ellyse Perry and Beth Mooney.

"Elyse is a world-class cricketer and we are very happy to gain her signature. I'm sure she'll come in and have an immediate impact," Hemp said. "We're looking forward to seeing what Elyse will bring to the team, not only on the field but the influence she'll have on the younger players in helping them to develop their games."

The Stars will kickstart their campaign against Hobart Hurricanes on October 19 at CitiPower Centre.