Heat’s Pfeffer makes most of BBL chance

Laine Clark |

A schoolteacher by trade, Lachlan Pfeffer is not ready to return to the classroom just yet after a stunning Big Bash League display for Brisbane Heat.

The 30-year-old admits his future lies in education but hopes to extend his cricket career after an impressive 51-ball 69 in Brisbane’s eight-wicket loss to Hobart Hurricanes at the Gabba on Saturday night.

Pfeffer was among a raft of unheralded replacements called up after 12 Heat players tested positive for COVID-19 during the week, ensuring they must isolate for seven days.

Pfeffer holds a Queensland contract as Bulls back-up ‘keeper but has had limited chances to impress thanks to form gloveman Jimmy Peirson.

He played the last of his six Sheffield Shield games two years ago and has registered a solitary one-day game for his state, way back in 2018.

But days after being one of eight Heat debutants in a heavy loss to Melbourne Renegades, Pfeffer looked like an old pro against Hobart as he steered a depleted Brisbane to 8-144 at a packed Gabba.

Coming in at No.3, Pfeffer thrashed six fours and three sixes to help Brisbane recover from 4-69, combining with fellow late call-up Will Prestwidge (21 off seven balls) to ensure a competitive target.

“We didn’t do any training leading up to it. It has been very, very rushed but it’s been exciting,” Pfeffer said of his BBL introduction.

“I haven’t played in front of this many people before. It (Gabba) is a beautiful place to play.

“Playing for the Heat has always been a goal and it is awesome to contribute in a way.”

Pint-sized Pfeffer admits he looks more like a jockey but did enough with the bat to impress the likes of ex-England captain Michael Vaughan.

“A great story. A player that wouldn’t have even thought he’d be anywhere near the Big Bash just a week or so ago – now he’s walking off with a 69 for his team,” Vaughan told Fox Cricket.

Even Pfeffer seemed surprised by his batting fireworks, admitting his slight frame was more suited to the classroom – or the race track.

But he aimed to keep grabbing his opportunities in cricket.

“I am a schoolteacher by trade. I taught for four years before I got picked up (by Queensland cricket) and once cricket is over I will be back in the classroom,” Pfeffer said.

“I am five foot three and weigh 66kg so I should be riding at Doomben (race track) to be honest!

“As back-up keeper, I am behind Jimmy (Peirson) and he is obviously going pretty well so I just have to keep chipping away, take my opportunities when I can.”

AAP