Jhye Richardson's BBL stay cedes with another injury hurdle

In a major setback for Perth Scorchers and Australia, speedster Jhye Richardson has been sidelined for the remainder of the Big Bash League (BBL) and is uncertain for the upcoming ODI series against West Indies. The 27-year-old quick, who recently made a comeback to the national squad after a long layoff, sustained an injury during the Scorchers clash with Brisbane Heat at the Gabba.

Richardson, who struggled to find his rhythm in this BBL season with six wickets at an average of 40.33 and an economy rate of 9.18, faced a fresh blow after scans revealed the severity of his injury. Having missed a significant part of the 2023 season due to hamstring surgery and a dislocated shoulder, he had displayed promising form earlier this summer in both the Marsh Sheffield Shield and Marsh Cup.

Despite earning a recall to the Australian ODI squad, the pacer's hopes are now uncertain as this new injury raises doubts about his participation in the upcoming series against West Indies. This unfortunate development comes just two days after his inclusion in the squad. The ODI series against West Indies is set to kick off in Melbourne on February 2.

Richardson’s long-lived battle with injuries persist

The right arm pacer, who has battled various injuries throughout his career, including shoulder dislocations that required surgery, had recently been picked up by Delhi Capitals in the IPL 2024 auction. The Scorchers, currently in a tussle for the second spot in the BBL table, face an uphill task to secure a place in the final after losing the Qualifier to Brisbane Heat.

This setback isn't the first for Richardson in recent BBL history; he missed the BBL 12 decider last year due to an ongoing hamstring injury. Despite the defending champions securing a home grand final, his recovery from a supposed minor hamstring issue took longer than anticipated. The Scorchers and Australian selectors find themselves grappling with the challenge of reshuffling their plans for the crucial encounters ahead.