Maria Sharapova confirmed for Brisbane International

Maria Sharapova has confirmed that she will take part in the Brisbane International ahead of next year's Australian Open.

The Russian was scheduled to attend the warm-up event this year but was forced to pull out through injury.

"Going into Australia after a long off-season you always want to have the best possible matches," said the 25-year-old.

"I tried to put Brisbane on the map last year but unfortunately couldn't make it out of injury... I have heard so many great things about it."

Serena Williams and defending men's champion Andy Murray have also signed up for next year's tournament.