Thursday 7 March 2019 18:13, UK
Former Australia coach Darren Lehmann will take over as coach of Brisbane Heat in the Big Bash League in what will be his first appointment since resigning after the ball-tampering scandal in South Africa last year.
After coaching the national team since mid-2013, Lehmann quit in the days following the incident in the Cape Town Test last March, although Cricket Australia said he was not involved in the ball-tampering attempt.
Brisbane Heat general manager Andrew McShea said on Thursday that Lehmann, who coached the Heat to their only Big Bash League title in January 2013, would assume his position next week.
"It was a wonderful experience at the time to be involved with building the Brisbane Heat at the start of the BBL, and we had plenty of fun along the way,'' Lehmann said.
"I enjoyed watching the BBL, and the Heat, during the season and as a coach, I am pretty excited to be working with the Heat players, who I know are as talented and determined as anyone going around.
"I am looking forward to getting to work and helping the Heat play some outstanding cricket, have some fun, and provide our fans with a great experience."
McShea added: "Darren has vast experience as a coach and as a manager of talented players. We believe he can hit the ground running, and work towards the Heat providing its fans with outstanding experience in BBL 09 and beyond.
"It's a bonus for us that he understands the rationale behind the Heat from his earlier days with us, but this appointment was not about past glories.
"Darren stood out as someone who brings together innovation and extensive cricketing insights as well as a passion for success.
"He has made his home in Queensland with his family and naturally we are very pleased to welcome him back into the fold at Queensland Cricket."
