English all-rounder Tom Curran is gearing up for a fresh start in the Big Bash League (BBL) as he joins Melbourne Stars on a two-year pre-draft contract for the 2024-25 season. The 29-year-old, who has been a prominent figure in the BBL, is set to make a full return to the competition after a turbulent previous season with Sydney Sixers.

Curran, who is currently representing Oval Invincibles in The Hundred, reflected on his departure from the Sixers, a team he served with distinction for six years. Despite his success on the field, last season was marred by an unfortunate incident that led to a four-match suspension. Curran was penalized for intimidating fourth umpire Muhammad Qureshi during a warm-up before a game against Hobart Hurricanes. Although he managed to take 3 for 19 in that match, including his 50th BBL wicket, the ban and a subsequent knee injury cut his season short, allowing him only two more appearances before being sidelined.

Reflecting on the incident and his departure from the Sixers, Curran expressed his gratitude to the franchise for their support during the challenging period. "Obviously, the way that whole situation panned out last year wasn't how anyone wanted it to happen," Curran told ESPNcricinfo. "I don't feel like it was an issue with the Sixers. We fought the case together, and they backed me, which I really appreciated. Whenever I represented the Sixers, I felt like I did them proud, not just on the field; I felt like I gave it my all, immersed myself in the culture, and made some amazing friends."

Curran's move to Melbourne Stars marks a new chapter in his BBL career, and he is excited about the opportunity to contribute to his new team. He noted that while the Sixers were considering other overseas options, the Stars' commitment to him made the decision to switch teams feel right. "It just felt like the right decision, a good time for a change. And with the multi-year contracts, I feel like a person who wants to be loyal to teams; you don't want to be chopping and changing," Curran explained.

Despite the abrupt end to his tenure with the Sixers, Curran emphasized that his decision to leave was not influenced by any issues with the team's players or staff. "Absolutely, it didn't end the way I wanted it to...but the decisions that were made and the way it panned out were not anything to do with the people I actually dealt with and where my loyalties were," he added.

The Melbourne Stars are eagerly anticipating Curran's arrival, especially as they aim to bolster their squad for the upcoming season. The Sixers, meanwhile, are re-evaluating their overseas options ahead of the BBL draft on September 1, with a spinner reportedly high on their priority list following the retirement of veteran Steve O'Keefe.

As Curran prepares for his BBL return, he remains focused on performing at his best and contributing to his team's success. Having recovered from a serious forearm injury earlier this year, he is ready to take on the challenges ahead and hopes to add more titles to his already impressive resume.