Steve O’Keefe re-signed by the Sixers on one year deal

Australian left-arm spinner Steve O’Keefe on Friday (July 15) was re-signed by Sydney Sixers for the forthcoming edition of the Big Bash League- BBL 12.

Sydney Sixers confirmed the signing of the veteran spinner for another year with the club. O'Keefe has been a mainstay for the Sixers for more than a decade, but in particular, he has been a big part of their success in the last two years with 30 wickets at an economy rate of less than seven per over.

A surprise comeback

The 37-year-old left-arm spinner considered calling time on his career at the end of last season but he decided to continue for another year instead. According to O'Keefe, his decision was influenced by head coach Greg Shipperd and captain Moises Henriques.

"Greg [Shipperd] and Moises [Henriques] are two of the main reasons I want to go around again. Greg is an excellent coach, and his record speaks for itself," said Stephen O'Keefe on extending his spell with the Sixers.

"However, he's a true mentor. I've learnt a lot from Greg - not only from an on-field sense but off it as well. So, to be able to play another season under him, and alongside Moises, was a real drawcard for me to go around again."

Also read: The 2022-23 BBL draft

Sixers delighted to have O'Keefe Back

"Stephen is a remarkable player in terms of the life of the franchise. He's been there for the whole journey - been through many ups, and some downs as well. But he's still delivering at the highest level," said Greg Shipperd

"He's like having another coach in our side and shaping the minds of our emerging spin bowlers."