They had hoped he would be available for seven games in between those two commitments but Brook has withdrawn from the tournament due to the workload.

"Naturally we're disappointed that Harry has withdrawn from the BBL but we understand his decision with his increased workload," Melbourne Stars General Manager Blair Crouch said.

"Given Harry was set to miss the opening 3 matches, the club had already signed a replacement player for that period.

"Currently the coaching staff and list management team are discussing options for the remainder of the tournament and we look forward to announcing those signings once they have been finalised."

It is the second straight year one of the top two picks in the overseas draft has withdrawn from the tournament after Liam Livingstone withdrew last year having been Melbourne Renegades No.1 pick in the inaugural overseas draft.

The BBL begins on December 7 and finishes on January 24.