Melbourne, Dec 11 (IANS): Pakistan speedster Haris Rauf will return to the Melbourne Stars for the ongoing edition of the Big Bash League (BBL). With changes to international commitments and scheduling, Rauf is now available to play for the club in January.

The 27-year-old made headlines in his debut BBL 9 season, taking 20 wickets in his 10 matches, including a memorable hat trick against the Sydney Thunder and five wickets against the Hobart Hurricanes.

Uncapped by Pakistan at the beginning of last season, Rauf was called into the national side in January and made his debut in a T20I match against Bangladesh. He has since played eight T20Is and two ODIs after being called up for national duties.

"I'm very happy that I can come back to the Melbourne Stars this season and play at the MCG again," Rauf said.

"It was an unbelievable journey last season and changed my life in so many ways. The Stars fans were very supportive of me and I can't wait to play in front of them again. The support of all the Pakistan community in Melbourne was fantastic and hopefully we can put in some big performances this season," he added.

Rauf is expected to arrive in early January and be available until the start of February.

Melbourne Stars head coach David Hussey welcomed Rauf's return.

"Haris was one the best stories of last season and made an incredible contribution for us. His energy was fantastic for the team and we're really pleased to have him coming back. Haris gives us another dimension and threat in our bowling attack with his raw pace," Hussey said.