Reserve Players Unavailable, Assistant Coach Pads Up and Hits Sixes – Watch the Video!
In a surprising turn of events during a Big Bash League (BBL) match between Sydney Thunder and Brisbane Heat, 41-year-old assistant coach Dan Christian was forced to don the batting gear and take to the crease due to a lack of available reserve players. The unusual incident unfolded after several players, including Bancroft and Daniel Sams, sustained injuries or faced fitness issues while fielding, leaving the team short-handed.
Dan Christian, who had officially retired from professional cricket just last year, stunned spectators with his batting prowess. He scored 23 runs off 15 balls, including two towering sixes. One of his sixes, which covered a distance of 92 meters, became the highlight of the match. Thanks to Christian’s cameo, Sydney Thunder managed to post a competitive total of 173/8 in their allotted 20 overs.
Chasing a target of 174 runs, Brisbane Heat’s batsmen rose to the occasion, reaching the target in 18.5 overs with five wickets in hand. Max Bryant played a match-winning knock, scoring 72 runs off just 35 balls, including seven boundaries and four sixes. Matt Renshaw contributed 48 runs, while captain Colin Munro chipped in with 23 runs to secure the win for Brisbane Heat.