New Heat Coach Johan Botha Backs Max Bryant After Josh Brown’s Move to Renegades

The Brisbane Heat has bolstered their batting lineup following Josh Brown's transfer to the Renegades by re-signing Max Bryant to a two-year contract.

Bryant, who began his career as an opening batsman in 2018, has transitioned to a middle-order role and currently ranks third on the club's all-time run-scoring list.

New Heat coach Johan Botha highlighted the significance of retaining Bryant amidst numerous offers from other Big Bash clubs, pinpointing his importance to the team's future and title defence.

"He is evolving into a key player for the Heat. His versatility with the bat aligns perfectly with our team strategy, boasting a strong strike rate against spin, the ability to hit boundaries against pace, and is a vital part of our fielding unit," Botha explained.

Botha stressed the importance of securing Bryant for an additional two seasons, especially as the team has managed to retain most of the group that has been highly competitive over the past two years.

Brisbane Heat BBL|14 Squad (so far):  

Xavier Bartlett, Max Bryant, Spencer Johnson, Usman Khawaja, Matthew Kuhnemann, Nathan McSweeney, Colin Munro (direct overseas signing), Michael Neser, Jimmy Peirson, Will Prestwidge, Matthew Renshaw, Mitchell Swepson

Outs: Josh Brown (Renegades), Sam Billings (Thunder)  

Out of contract: Marnus Labuschagne, Jack Wildermuth, Jack Wood

The departure of Josh Brown, last summer's explosive opening batsman, to the Melbourne Renegades, was a significant loss for the Heat. 

Bryant, who served as an opener for four seasons before being shifted down the order five games into BBL|12, finished last season with 94 runs at a strike rate of 160.91 from his five matches. He now trails only Chris Lynn and Jimmy Pierson on the club’s all-time run-scoring list.

Despite numerous offers from other clubs, Bryant expressed his desire to remain with the Heat. "There were plenty of offers, but I was keen to stay with the boys," Bryant said. "Winning the title last season, after coming so close the previous summer, is the highlight of my career so far. There are many opportunities ahead for us as a club, and I'm eager to make the most of them."

Bryant joins fellow title-winning teammates Michael Neser, Jimmy Pierson, and Xavier Bartlett in recommitting to the Heat. The team has also secured New Zealand veteran Colin Munro as their direct overseas signing.

The Heat hold picks 6, 14, 19, and 30 in the upcoming overseas player draft, where they plan to add at least two more overseas players.

The defending champions will begin their title defence in KFC BBL|14 against the Melbourne Stars at the MCG on December 18.