Australia's Darren Lehmann to coach BBL side Brisbane Heat
Australia's Darren Lehmann had a difficult 12-month period after quitting as head coach of the national team in the wake of a ball-tampering scandal last year. The celebrated Aussie coach and several members of the senior management left their roles after being accused of promoting a win-at-all-costs mentality. However, Lehmann has now returned to coaching with Big Bash League franchise Brisbane Heat.
Lehmann had steered Brisbane Heat to BBL glory in 2013
Lehmann has joined Brisbane Heat and it was here that his career as a coach took off. He steered the franchise to the BBL title in 2013. Lehmann will replace outgoing coach Daniel Vettori at Brisbane Heat. He was chosen ahead of Queensland coach Wade Seccombe, Bulls assistant coach James Hopes, and ex-skipper Brendon McCullum. Lehmann will begin in the role next week.
Welcome back Lehmann!
'I am pretty excited to be working with Brisbane Heat'
"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," said the former Aussie coach.
Ball-tampering scandal a low point in Lehmann's career
The lowest point of Darren Lehmann's career has to be the ball-tampering saga that unfolded in South Africa. Lehmann was cleared of no wrongdoing, but it was under him that Australian players were involved in the ball-tampering scandal. Skipper Steve Smith and David Warner were banned for 12 months from cricket. Cameron Bancroft was axed for nine months for the sandpaper cheating scandal.
I've fallen in love with the game again: Lehmann
"I think you learn a lot about yourself during the dark times and for me it's all about enjoying the game. I've fallen in love with the game again, so I'm really looking forward to getting back working with these talented young players," said Lehmann.
What did Lehmann achieve as Australian head coach?
Lehmann was appointed Australia's head coach in 2013. He was successful in seeing the team win the ICC 2015 World Cup. The former southpaw won two Ashes at home and the 2017-18 series was his latest victory. He also lost twice in the tours to England. During his time, Aussies beat India, New Zealand, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and the West Indies in Test cricket.
