Essex star Lawrence prepared for the Big Bash challenge

Essex’s Dan Lawrence is to join Brisbane Heat for the forthcoming KFC Big Bash League, starting on December 10.

The Leytonstone-born right-hander heads down under as an international replacement for Tom Banton, arriving in mid-November ahead of a period of isolation. The 23-year-old will then join up with the Heat squad before their opening fixture with Melbourne Stars at The Manuka Oval on December 11.

Speaking to www.essexcricket.org.uk, Lawrence enthused: “I’m looking forward to meeting everyone at the Heat and working with the lads to get the team off to a good start.

“The BBL is a bit of a staple diet for us at home during our winter and it will be enormous to a part of the League there this summer.”