Ben Dunk has left the Melbourne Stars a year before his contract expires after the batsman and the club "mutually agreed" to part ways.

Dunk signed a five-year deal with the Stars in 2017, having enjoyed strong returns with Hobart Hurricanes and Adelaide Strikers, but in 42 matches has made 621 runs at 16.34 with 342 of those coming in the 2018-19 campaign. This season he has made 69 runs in five innings.

"This was a difficult decision that will allow me to explore other playing opportunities and ultimately was in the best interests for me, my family and the club," Dunk said "I have thoroughly enjoyed my time playing with the Melbourne Stars and wish them all the best for the remainder of this season and into the future."

In a social media post, he added: "Unfortunately I haven't made the most of those opportunities but that is cricket. To the fans of the Stars, you guys are amazing and I'm sure in time, you will get the ultimate success you deserve.

"To my team-mates from over the years, I thank you, and I look forward to seeing you all at some point in the near future."

Having played his last first-class cricket in 2016 and his last one-day match in 2017, Dunk has forged his career travelling around various leagues. He was recently retained by Lahore Qalandars in the PSL where he made 300 runs at 37.50 with a strike-rate of 167.59 last season.

Melbourne Stars General Manager Nick Cummins said: "Melbourne Stars would like to thank Ben for his service over the last three seasons. We wish him all the best in the future."