Lynn signs five-year deal with Brisbane Heat

Chris Lynn has signed a new five-year deal with the Big Bash League franchise Brisbane Heat. The franchise has called it "the biggest deal in BBL history", although among Australian players, Aaron Finch is also on a lucrative long-term deal having signed with Melbourne Renegades for three seasons in August 2016.

The exact terms of Lynn's contract are not yet known, but reports suggest it could make him a million-dollar player in the BBL.

Heat have also announced two-year deals for coaches Daniel Vettori and Shane Bond. "The fact we have locked-up Dan and Shane and a good proportion of our squad for the next few years bodes well for the future,'' Lynn told the franchise's website. "The Heat has evolved into a club for all Queensland fans and we're determined to make a success of the opportunity we have ahead of us. It was one of the best experiences of my career to play in front of five sold-out home crowds at the Gabba.

"To be in the same side as a legend like Brendon McCullum and enjoy some success along the way made it even more memorable. I'm honoured that the Heat have shown confidence in me for the coming seasons and given us the opportunity to achieve something special as a club in the future."

Lynn has spent his entire BBL career with Heat, scoring 1459 runs for them at an average of 39.43 and a strike rate of 155.04. He had an phenomenal 2016-17 season, scoring 309 runs in five innings while only being dismissed twice, at a strike rate of 177.58.

Numbers of that nature make Lynn one of Australian cricket's most exciting talents - when fit. He has suffered persistent shoulder injuries, and he is currently recovering after undergoing surgery. He has missed the start of Australia's home season - including the entirety of the domestic one-day tournament - for the fourth year running, and has not been offered a Queensland contract for 2017-18.

Lynn said that his recovery was proceeding steadily. "I've had some good reports from the surgeon and the QC medical staff and we're working to the recovery plan. It is feeling okay now, although there is still a way to go."