Gayle, Murli, among top stars being eyed by Victoria for T20 squad

Melbourne, June 25 (ANI): Victoria is set to add a second international cricketer to its squad in a bid to reach a fifth consecutive Twenty20 Big Bash final next summer.

The Bushrangers on Wednesday confirmed they had signed West Indies all rounder Dwayne Bravo for the 2009-10 series, and another big name is likely to be added to the squad before Christmas Day.

West Indies captain Chris Gayle, as well as several Sri Lankans, including opener Tillakaratne Dilshan, legendary spinner Muthiah Muralidaran, pacer Lasith Malinga, and veteran bowler Chaminda Vaas are in contention.

Dilshan's performances in the World Cup and the Indian Premier League make him hot property, but given he played in the IPL for Delhi Daredevils, coached by Bushrangers coach Greg Shipperd, Victoria could be a good choice for the Sri Lankan.

Cricket Australia this year changed its rules to allow states to sign two internationals instead of just one. It is underwriting the cost in its desire to continue to improve the profile of the domestic Twenty20 championship, The Herald Sun reports.

The two Big Bash finalists qualify for the Champions Trophy tournament and Victoria is moving quickly to protect its standing as the most successful state in recent years. (ANI)