School's out as Pfeffer makes most of BBL chance

09 Jan 2022 AAP

Lachlan Pfeffer is enjoying the opportunity to show what he can do on the BBL stage

A schoolteacher by trade, Lachlan Pfeffer is not ready to return to the classroom just yet after a stunning KFC BBL 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.

How's this for your second-ever BBL match? 💥Lachlan Pfeffer scored his maiden BBL fifty and went on to register 69 for the @HeatBBL! 🔥#BBL11 pic.twitter.com/HmtHdLpJhS— KFC Big Bash League (@BBL) January 8, 2022

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.

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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."

Image Id: 2A4572BDC8854267814D287598001B08 Image Caption: Pfeffer made his one-day debut for Queensland in 2018 // Getty

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."