World number two Victoria Azarenka will again contest the Brisbane International, as she prepares to defend her Australian Open crown.

Azarenka, who has won the past two titles at Melbourne Park, will return to Brisbane after being forced out at the semi-final stage of this year’s tournament because of a toe injury.

The Belarusian, who posted her maiden WTA tournament in Brisbane in 2009, will be joined in the women’s draw by Germany’s 2013 Wimbledon finalist Sabine Lisicki.

World number one and defending champion Serena Williams will also play in Brisbane, which is a WTA Premier tournament.