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Explosive English opener Alex Hales has signed a one-year deal to play for Sydney Thunder in the upcoming Big Bash League.

Sydney Thunder have added big-hitting English opener Alex Hales to Big Bash League line-up on a one-year deal.

The 30-year-old has played 11 Tests, 70 one-day Internationals and 60 Twenty20 internationals for England.

Hales joins the Thunder after a prosperous series in England's T20 Blast in which he amassed 418 runs - which included five half centuries - at an average of 38.

He joins South African all-rounder Chris Morris as the Thunder's two overseas players, with Jos Buttler unavailable due to England's tour of South Africa.

"We're obviously disappointed to lose Jos because he's brilliant, but to be able to bring in someone of Alex's quality is huge for us," Thunder coach Shane Bond said.

"He's one of the most destructive batters, is an outstanding fielder and is also obviously a highly experienced player."

Apart from his previous ranking as the ICC's world No.1 T20 batsman, Hales is also the only English batsman to have scored a T20 international century.

Hales is excited to return to the BBL after previous stints with Melbourne Renegades, Adelaide Strikers and Hobart Hurricanes, and hopes to play a key role at the top of Thunder's batting order.

"I really can't wait to return to the Big Bash," he said.

"It's such a hugely respected tournament around the world.

"The standard of cricket is amazing and any chance you get to visit Australia and play over there is amazing, so I'm really looking forward to it."

The Thunder will open their campaign against Brisbane Heat at the Gabba on December 17.