The Perth Scorchers have boosted their squad for the business end of the Big Bash League season by securing the services of Australian batsman Marcus Harris.

Harris, who was on the fringes of Test team selection over the summer, joins the reigning BBL champions as a replacement for England’s Zak Crawley and provides added batting depth and experience.

The 30-year-old left-hander has previously represented the Melbourne Renegades and Scorchers in the BBL, scoring over 980 runs at a strike rate above 120.

Scorchers coach Adam Voges expressed satisfaction with the signing, stating “Marcus is a proven and consistent performer at Big Bash level. His addition ensures we have batting cover and provides competition for spots during the finals.”

Harris will be eligible for finals cricket even if he does not feature in remaining regular season matches. The Scorchers currently sit second on the table as they pursue a third consecutive BBL title.

In other cricket news, New Zealand secured a 46-run victory against Pakistan in the first T20I at Wellington. Half-centuries from Devon Conway and Kane Williamson led NZ to 226/7. Pakistan fell short in their chase despite Babar Azam’s 57. The win gives the hosts a 1-0 series lead.