Patto to bolster Renegades' finals hopes

The Melbourne Renegades look set to be bolstered by the inclusion of test fast bowler James Pattinson for next week's must-win Big Bash League showdown with the Adelaide Strikers.

Renegades stand-in captain Cameron White said Pattinson was likely to be available for Monday's blockbuster which will likely decide the franchise's finals hopes.

Injury-prone Pattinson has been rested after playing the final three Tests of the summer against the West Indies and Cricket Australia is managing his workload carefully.

His career stalled for nearly two years because of back and hamstring problems before Pattinson returned to the Test arena against the West Indies, taking 13 wickets at an average of 22.46 in three Tests.

After sitting out the past fortnight, he is set to be available for the Renegades' final match at Etihad Stadium which should attract a bumper crowd.

Pattinson's inclusion would be a huge boost for the Renegades, who have lacked firepower this season, as they get to take on the second-placed Strikers and a possible finals campaign.

"Maybe even Patto might be available. I'm not sure if I'm allowed to say it but I've just said it," White said.

"James has had two weeks off now so hopefully he'll be available and that will be a massive bonus for us. That would be a handy weapon to have."