Import Perera ruled out for Renegades

Melbourne Renegades have added veteran quick Nathan Rimmington back into their 13-man squad ahead of tonight's derby clash with Melbourne Stars at Etihad Stadium.

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Fast-bowling allrounder Thisara Perera was yesterday unveiled as the international replacement player for injured West Indian Dwayne Bravo and listed in the squad to take on their crosstown rivals from 7.10pm this evening, however he has since been withdrawn.

The Renegades cited a paperwork issue as the reason behind the late change.

Yesterday, Renegades coach Andrew McDonald had expressed his excitement at the prospect of the big hitter replacing Bravo in the line-up.

“It’s obviously been a quick turnaround following Dwayne’s injury but we’re happy we’ve been able to secure someone of Thisara’s experience for the remainder of BBL|06," McDonald said.

“I’m looking forward to having him in the group and showing what he can do."

In better news for Renegades fans, pace ace James Pattinson returns to the side for his first top-level hit-out in 11 months.

Pattinson, one of the country's most lethal fast bowlers, has been battling injury but is confident he is fit, firing and ready to help the Melbourne franchise's charge for a top four spot.

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"I've had four or five good bowls now at my maximum in the nets. I'm feeling really good," Pattinson said on Friday.

"Hopefully I can get out there and once the adrenaline kicks in, I can play some good cricket.

"The boys have had a really good start to the tournament. Hopefully I can get out there tomorrow night and help contribute to another win for the Renegades and really set up our season well."

The Renegades snapped a six-match losing streak against the Stars on New Year's Day and are aiming for a second season double over the MCG-based side – the last one coming in BBL|02.

Melbourne Renegades: Aaron Finch (c), Tom Cooper, Callum Ferguson, Marcus Harris, Brad Hogg, Trent Lawford, Sunil Narine, Peter Nevill, Nathan Rimmington, Chris Tremain, Matt Short, James Pattinson, Cameron White

Melbourne Stars: David Hussey (c), Michael Beer, Scott Boland, James Faulkner, Evan Gulbis, Sam Harper, Ben Hilfenhaus, Glenn Maxwell, Kevin Pietersen, Rob Quiney, Marcus Stoinis, Luke Wright, Adam Zampa