Sydney, Jul 25 (IANS): Former Australian batsman Matthew Hayden will return to cricket with the inaugural Big Bash League where he will play for Brisbane Heat.

Hayden, 39, has not played cricket in Australia since his retirement from Test cricket in January 2009.

The explosive revealed that his comeback was prompted by his business interest in the franchise he has signed up with.

"I have had little interest in the T20 format domestically whilst it remained a state based format, which to me, was a pathway or development program to national interests. A system, I hasten to add, that I received the benefit of as a player," said Hayden.

"But an eight-team Big Bash League structure - involving separate organisations running these entities with private equity stakeholders in the future - has launched the 'business of cricket' and relaunched my interest as a highly viable business decision, adding value both to The Hayden Way (his company), and also to me personally on the field."

Hayden last played in the T20 Champions League in 2010 but Brisbane Heat coach Darren Lehmann said the time gap will not affect the explosive opener's performance.

"I took no time at all to say yes when the possibility of Matt playing for us was first floated. The man is a legend of our game and brings so much to any team he plays for, whether that's on the field, in the dressing-room, in the boardroom or away from the field with the fans ... it is just outstanding," said Lehmann.