Chris Lynn expected to make his BBL return against Sydney Thunder at the Gabba

After missing out the opening two fixture of the Big Bash League (BBL) 7 campaign, Brisbane Heat superstar Chris Lynn is confident of making his long-awaited return to cricket against Sydney Thunder on Wednesday night at the Gabba. The Queenslander was named in Brisbane’s Playing XI for their opener but failed to be match-fit in time. However it was a hamstring niggle that had coaching staff erring on the side of caution for their talismanic batsman, and that remained the case for defeat to Melbourne Renegades last night.

The 27-year-old played just five matches in the previous edition before being struck down by injury, but his 309 runs at an average of 154.50, which included 26 sixes were enough to see him crowned the player of the tournament. Lynn, who underwent a shoulder reconstruction surgery in July, was initially forecast to be on sidelines until the end of January.

Speaking about his comeback, Lynn was quoted saying, “It’s exciting. I haven’t quite got the 100 percent nod yet but I’m pretty confident I’ll turn out on Wednesday night against the Sydney Thunder. It’s been a long time coming, there are a few nerves there, but I think it’s just like riding a bike – once you’re out there, get off the mark and it’s straight back into the business.”

He added, “I’ll probably train tomorrow and Boxing Day and make sure I tick off the final boxes … make sure the support staff and coaching staff are happy and go from there.”

Brisbane Heat to bear a new look in BBL 7

The team is set to bear a new dynamic in the upcoming season. Experienced paceman Josh Lalor also returns for the Heat, having missed the bulk of BBL 6 with a side strain. Son of former Queensland allrounder Scott Prestwidge, speedster Jack Prestwidge has been named as an injury replacement for allrounder Cameron Valente, who is recovering from a bruised foot