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.