The biggest poach of the off-season is done. Finn Allen has left the Perth Scorchers for the Melbourne Stars on a three-year deal — the kind of long contract overseas players almost never sign in the BBL.
Allen was the best batter in the league last summer: 466 runs, top of the charts, as Perth won a record sixth title. The Scorchers couldn’t match the Stars’ offer. Perth have already moved on, signing Zak Crawley as his replacement.
The one trophy still missing
This is where it gets interesting. The Stars are the only BBL club to have never won the title. Fifteen seasons, zero trophies. Now they add last season’s top scorer to a group with Glenn Maxwell and Marcus Stoinis, plus the Overton twins and spinner Todd Murphy.
But three overseas spots means three goodbyes: Joe Clarke and last season’s leading wicket-taker Haris Rauf won’t be back. The Stars have gone all-in on Allen and the Overtons. If that gamble fails, the title drought rolls into a 16th year.
See Finn Allen’s player profile, the Melbourne Stars squad for 2027 and the latest BBL 2027 news. Story via cricket.com.au.
FAQs
Why did Finn Allen leave Perth Scorchers?
The Stars offered a three-year deal Perth wouldn’t match.
Who replaces Finn Allen at Perth?
England opener Zak Crawley, on a one-year deal with full-season availability.
Have Melbourne Stars ever won the BBL?
No. They are the only franchise yet to lift the trophy in 15 completed seasons.
Last verified: 9 October 2026