Channel Seven’s SAS Australia was a surprise ratings hit last year, with the likes of Schapelle Corby and The Honey Badger appearing.

And with this year’s season now in pre-production, there’s already a few interesting names being linked to the show ahead of filming.

According to New Idea, Michael Clarke is said to be appearing alongside ex-wife Kyly. Olympian Ian Thrope, controversial chef Pete Evans and former NRL star Sam Burgess are also in the mix.

It’s worth noting none of this is confirmed… yet.

However, Sam’s recent arrest may have ruined his chances of actually appearing on the show.

‘Sam’s involvement is all in the air now, and whether Channel Seven can take that risk on someone like him remains to be seen. It’s a bit of a “watch this space” situation,’ a source told the mag.

Following the success of last year’s first season of SAS Australia, Seven revealed in November that they’d been ‘inundated’ with requests from celebrities wanting to appear.

A spokesperson told News.com.au: ‘We have been inundated with Aussie celebs wanting to take part and there are some good surprises on the shortlist. Names will be locked off sooner than later as people need to train hard to be ready for this course. Once cast they are given a training program. Ideally they need at least three months to get SAS ‘fit’ in a physical sense, but getting into the right mindset is up to the individual.’