Hussey named Stars head coach

The Melbourne Stars have appointed former captain and foundation player David Hussey as their new men's team head coach.

Hussey has signed a two-year deal and replaces former Black Caps skipper Stephen Fleming at the helm.

The Stars will be hoping Hussey can deliver the club their first KFC BBL title having finished runners-up in BBL|05 - when Hussey was captain - and last summer against cross-town rivals the Melbourne Renegades.

"I am really honoured and incredibly excited by the opportunity to lead the Stars," Hussey said in a statement today.

"Stephen (Fleming) has done some remarkable things with this team over the period and I’ll be looking to capitalise on this while bringing in some strategy and style of my own.

"The BBL|05 Final loss still burns inside me, so I can only imagine how the current players must feel with last season’s loss.

"From my perspective, to make the final from last position in BBL|07 was a Herculean effort which provides a tremendous platform and enthusiasm for season ahead. I know we have the talent but more importantly we all have the unwavering desire to win the Club’s first title."

Hussey played 48 matches for the Stars, scoring 855 runs in seven seasons.

His elevation to head coach has seen the 41-year-old step down from the Cricket Victoria Board.

He was elected to the position in August last year but will now focus on guiding the Stars to their maiden championship.

"I’d like to thank my fellow Directors for their welcome and our work together over the last six months," Hussey said.

"I wish them every success and I look forward to the next journey with the Stars."