Hodge brought the competition's trophy to Wodonga yesterday as part of a tour, ahead of next week's season opener.

The Big Bash hasn't traditionally had a strong contingent of top-line South Africans, but that changes with de Villiers heading to Brisbane Heat and Steyn to Melbourne Stars.

"Anyone who you talk to about Dale Steyn talks about his pace, he's frighteningly fast," Hodge said.

"He's really developed his game, there's lot of variations and he's aggressive, he'll light up the Big Bash no doubt."

At his peak, Steyn was considered the world's best bowler, while his countryman is rated in Hodge's best.

"AB is one of a couple of players, Virat (Kohli), maybe David Warner and the other one's probably Chris Gayle who've been able to cross to all three forms of the game and be a standout superstar," Hodge said.

"AB's probably one or two on that list."

The top-order batsman will join Heat powerhouse and captain Chris Lynn, along with the new star of Australian cricket in Test number three Marnus Labuschagne.

And Steyn's pace will be complemented by the class and skill of captain Glenn Maxwell.

The Stars fell to the Renegades in last season's all-Melbourne grand final.

The Renegades posted 7-145 with the Stars falling to 7-132.

The champions will again by led by Australia's ODI captain Aaron Finch, while prolific domestic scorer Shaun Marsh is part of a strong top order.

Hodge had been one of the Big Bash stars until retiring last year, but he retains a strong link through his commentary.

"I love it, it's great and it's good fun too, we really enjoy it," he said.

"It's just a great time of the year."

Last season's competition attracted controversy over the length of the season, but it's been shortened this time.

Still, there are 61 games crammed into 53 days with Brisbane Heat hosting the season opener against Sydney Thunder next Tuesday, December 17.

The final is scheduled for February 8.