James Pattinson: “Joining the Heat represents a fresh start and one I am really looking forward too”
Image courtesy of: Zimbio
The Brisbane Heat have significantly bolstered their bowling department after signing Australia pace bowler James Pattinson on a two-year deal.
Pattinson most recently played for the Melbourne Renegades before making the switch to the Heat.
The 27-year-old underwent a surgical procedure on his spine late last year after being diagnosed with another stress fracture in his back.
The operation was done in order to prolong Pattinson’s cricketing career, and now that he is on the mend, the Melbourne native admitted that he is thrilled about representing the Heat in the 2018/19 edition of the Big Bash League (BBL).
“I’m looking forward to working with Dan and playing alongside Brendon McCullum and Chris Lynn and the rest of the boys,” he was quoted as saying by the franchise’s website. “I’m grateful for the opportunities I have had with the Renegades, and before them the Stars, and I thank them for the great support they have provided me over the seasons.
“But joining the Heat represents a fresh start and one I am really looking forward too. The Heat get fantastic support at their home games and that will be a buzz to be a part of again.
“I’m feeling very good physically after the surgery and I’m looking forward to getting back into some bowling during the winter. The facilities at Allan Border Field are second to none so that will also be very helpful as I build towards the coming season.”
Heat head coach Daniel Vettori admitted that he was thrilled to have acquired the services of a seamer of Pattinson’s calibre.
“We identified some areas where we needed to improve on from last season, and James will help us deliver on some of that,” Vettori said. “James at his best is a handful for any batting side and we believe he will add another dimension to our club.
“Knowing how Shane [Bond] and other bowlers have managed their career in similar circumstances will help us provide the right environment for him to deliver his best. As a senior player, James will also have the chance to do likewise and mentor some of our up and coming bowlers.
“I’m sure the Heat fans will make him very welcome when he arrives and we’re looking forward to some more exciting matches with James in our squad.”