An unknown Queensland grade cricketer has pulled off one of the most memorable batting innings in only his second-ever Big Bash appearance.
Playing in his second T20 domestic league game, Josh Brown delivered an innings to remember on the first day of the new year. Opening the batting, Brown hit an explosive 62 runs in just 23 balls.
His remarkable innings included ten boundaries, with four 4s and six 6s, and a strike rate of 269.57. Taking on the bowlers from the get-go, he wasn't deterred by the early wicket loss of Colin Munro.
After receiving the man-of-the-match award, Brown appeared in his first-ever press conference on Monday afternoon. Speaking on his performance, he had plenty to say.
"I just try to treat it as another game of cricket. Obviously playing in front of all those people and getting a massive ovation as you're walking off is pretty special. Something you won't sort of forget," he said.
"At the start of the tournament, I didn't think I'd play unless someone was injured or something like that. Now (I'm) going out and just backing my game."
What makes this inning more memorable than others is that Brown hand-crafted the bat he used. He is a bat-maker by trade and plays cricket as a hobby with his mates.
"I actually made that one, a bison. I made it mid to high middle, probably about 2'12 I reckon. Very skinny handle, which some people don't like but it works for me."
Not only has the performance put him on the map in the Australian Twenty20 domestic scene but it has provided 'bison' bat sales to go through the roof.
"I think 30, 35 sales in the space of three and a half (hours), he said."
Despite the amazing innings, he insists he isn't looking too much ahead into the future. However, at least now he will be able to get his surname on the back of his shirt.
"I'll try to not look too far ahead, just try and take each game as it is."
Brown will be hoping for a repeat performance against the Sydney Sixers when the Brisbane Heat takes them on again this Wednesday.
