Larkin and O’Connell have both been elevated to full contracts after coming in as injury replacement players last season.
In addition to Larkin and O’Connell’s signings, young quick Sam Elliott has also joined the Stars on a Development Rookie contract.
Larkin played eight games for the Stars last season, accumulating 159 runs with a high score of 45, while O’Connell played four matches completing the season with best figures of 1-17.
Stars List Manager Trent Woodhill said:
“Nick was great with the bat last year. He is very composed and played an important role coming into the team as a replacement player last season, particularly when he batted with Maxi at Metricon last year to help us to victory,” Woodhill said.
“It’s great to have him back on a full contract and we look forward to seeing what he brings to the batting line-up this season.
“Tom is a young spin bowler and we saw his talent on display in four matches last season. Together with Adam Zampa, Sandeep Lamichhane and Clint Hinchliffe, we can’t wait to see him develop and believe we have a strong spin department.
“We’re also delighted that Sam gets the opportunity to continue his development as a quick bowler on a rookie contract. Hopefully he can tap into the knowledge of some of our senior players.”
Larkin and O’Connell said they were excited to be back at the Stars for another season.
"I had a great experience with the Stars last season so to be able to sign a full contract is great. I enjoy spending time in Melbourne, playing T20 and working with players like Glenn Maxwell, Marcus Stoinis and Pete Handscomb,” Larkin said.
“I’ve really enjoyed being a part of the Stars family so I'm excited to be back. We have a really good group and have a lot of fun together so I can’t wait for December to come around,” O’Connell said.
BBL Squad: Glenn Maxwell (c), Hilton Cartwright, Jackson Coleman, Nathan Coulter-Nile, Ben Dunk, Sebastian Gotch, Peter Handscomb, Clint Hinchliffe, Sandeep Lamichhane (O/S), Nick Larkin, Nic Maddinson, Jonathan Merlo, Lance Morris, Tom O'Connell, Dale Steyn (O/S), Marcus Stoinis, Daniel Worrall, Adam Zampa.
The Melbourne Stars will open its BBL|09 campaign against the Brisbane Heat on December 20 at Metricon Stadium.
Memberships are now on sale at gostars.com.au