Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting has signed with new Tasmanian franchise Hobart Hurricanes for the Twenty20 Big Bash League, Cricket Tasmania said on Thursday.

Ponting, who began his first-class career with the island state but rarely plays because of his international playing commitments, said he was excited about representing the Hurricanes in the December 30-February 5 tournament.

   “There has been a lot of talk and discussion between all of the boys over the last few weeks about who has signed where and I’m really excited about the prospect of playing with some great players in the Hurricanes colours,” Ponting said.

   “It’s always nice to represent your home state when you can and this is a great opportunity to play some exciting cricket in front of the passionate Hobart fans,” Ponting said.