Former Australia coach Darren Lehmann has been brought back into the coaching world as head coach of the Brisbane Heat for the coming season.

Lehmann resigned as head coach of the Australian national team following the fallout from the Sandpapergate saga at Newlands in 2018, and will replace Daniel Vettori.

‘Darren has vast experience as a coach and as a manager of talented players,’ said Brisbane Heat general manager Andrew McShea. ‘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.’

Lehmann has filled his time in recent months working as a radio commentator, but will dust off his coaching tracksuit and get down to coaching with the Heat in the 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 in reference to his earlier stint with the 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.

‘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.’

Photo: Getty Images