Brad Hodge planned to retire from top-level cricket four years ago – then everything changed.

The sport’s Twenty20 explosion has meant a lucrative and unexpected final chapter to Hodge’s career.

After switching from the Melbourne Renegades to their cross-town rivals the Stars, the 37-year-old says he has one and possibly two more Big Bash Leagues in him.

And Hodge warns he is there for much more than making up the numbers.

“Things dramatically changed, I suppose – the landscape of cricket changed,” Hodge said.

“Luckily for me, my skills are still there.

“I’ve always said if my skills go down, I will toss it in.

“You don’t want to be one of those people who are criticised for hanging on too long.

“That’s not me – I still have a lot to contribute.”

Hodge had a preview of his next potential chapter in cricket when he captained and coached an Australian team for last month’s Hong Kong Sixes tournament.

“That was more testing the waters on managing and coaching – that was a really good experience,” he said.

“It was a testing role.”

But for now, Hodge is relishing his return to the MCG as a home ground.

He admits there were other reasons for switching clubs that he preferred not to discuss, but the long-time Victorian and Australian batsman said he wants to end his playing days at the scene of some of his career highlights.

“Although it’s an ugly drive, up Punt Rd, it always felt more comfortable … going to the MCG,” Hodge said.

“Even though Etihad (Stadium) was good fun and I enjoyed myself at the Renegades, it does feel right at the Melbourne Stars.

“I don’t need to prove anything with my form or how skilled I am at playing.

“It’s a matter of entertainment and contributing to the team and, hopefully, I can have that impact.

“It just feels like another summer. It doesn’t feel like I’ve moved teams – there are so many familiar faces.”