Melbourne Renegades join pacer Jason Behrendorff in 1st BBL free agency move

In the Big Bash League (BBL), the Melbourne Renegades have signed free agent Jason Behrendorff to a three-year contract. Under the new player movement window of the BBL, the left-arm pacer is the first big acquisition.

Behrendorff was a major contributor to the Perth Scorchers’ success, helping them win four BBL titles over his 13-year career, thus many fans were taken aback by his departure. But after missing the playoffs for the first time in five seasons, the Scorchers had to make difficult roster decisions. Prior to the player movement window opening, Behrendorff and other well-known players like Andrew Tye and Mitchell Marsh were not included on the list of ten players kept.

He became the second-highest wicket-taker in Scorchers history with 140 wickets taken. The pacer took 17 wickets in the most recent 2024–25 season at an economy rate of 7.55 and an average of 17.41. Interestingly, he took the most wickets this season. But when the Scorchers decided to switch up their lineup, the Renegades seized the chance to send the seasoned seamer to Melbourne.

I’ve had fun playing both individually and with my teammates: Jason Behrendorff

Behrendorff was given the assurance of a steady position with the three-year contract that the Melbourne-based team offered him. Behrendorff talked about the thrill of joining a new squad but also shared mixed feelings about leaving Perth.

“I will always hold a particular place in my heart for the Scorchers. I always imagined that I would play orange for the remainder of my BBL career, but it was not meant to be. I know I’ve given it my all, and I’ve had a great time playing both individually and with the team. Participating in four BBL trophies has been a career high point for us as a squad, and we have enjoyed great success as a result of our tireless efforts.

“Whenever my career ended, Juvelle [Behrendorff’s wife] and I discussed moving to Melbourne as a goal, so being able to play cricket in a city we both adore and further my career is a blessing. In addition to my family, I am really thrilled about what the next phase with the Melbourne Renegades holds for me.

Additionally, Behrendorff’s contract with Renegades may allow him to play for the San Francisco Unicorns, a Major League Cricket team run by Cricket Victoria.