‘It’s not all about money’

Lynn scores in IPL auction

Big Bash superstar Chris Lynn has admitted he is walking a fine line between life-changing riches, a career-threatening injury and becoming Australia’s next Bernard Tomic.

While the Brisbane Heat are regretting a failed BBL campaign, Lynn can take solace in the $1.86 million Indian Premier League deal he secured on Saturday.

The six-hitting specialist was retained by Kolkata Knight Riders for the 2018 IPL, earning the highest bid for an Aussie in this year’s player auction.

Following years of shoulder injuries, Lynn is finally set to cash in on his batting talent, but he must first make it to the subcontinent in April unscathed.

The 27-year-old returned from a calf injury in the Heat’s season-ending loss to the Renegades on Saturday, however he is still far from full fitness.

Lynn has been banned from diving in the field to protect his healing shoulder and must make it through the upcoming Twenty20 series against England and New Zealand.

The IPL could make him Lynn-sanely rich over the next decade but he is reluctant to head down the same path as maligned tennis star Tomic.

“It’s not all about the money but it is life-changing,” Lynn said.

“I want to go there and play the best cricket I can and try and dominate in India. I had a pretty good season last year but I want to try and dominate all the way around the world.

“It’s a little bit of a reward from last year. It’s very wealthy. I’m glad I got a bit of it.

“You never want to get too far ahead of yourself because if you’re someone like Bernard Tomic you get shot down pretty quickly, don’t you?”

Lynn’s challenge now is performing admirably in the national colours while protecting his healing body.

His top score in five T20 appearances for Australia is 33 not out and while representing your country is an honour, it does not come with the lucrative pay cheques of franchise cricket.

“My shoulder is getting there but it’s not 100 per cent and probably won’t be for another 12 months if I’m being honest,” he said.

“I’m just starting to throw on my left side (natural throwing arm) now but it’s not something I’m going to rush. They are small steps but I’m confident in how I’m going.”

While Lynn will join the Australian set-up this week, the T20 season is over for his Heat teammates following their fourth straight loss.