Watch: Mark Richardson hilariously celebrates after taking a wicket

Mark Richardson was one of the most admired players in the New Zealand team. A solid opening batsman, Richardson thrived on the challenge of holding his place at the crease for as long as he could. His played 38 Test matches and averaged 44.77 playing a significant part in several of his country’s Test wins. A jovial character on and off the pitch, he was also noted for developing a tradition to challenge the slowest runner of the opposing side to a running race at the conclusion of each tour.

His nickname, ‘Rigor’, is short for Rigor mortis, given to him on account that he moved like a dead man. He was also known as ‘snail man’ due to his slow running. On one occasion he ran as fast as he could in celebration of his first and only Test wicket. Richardson began his career as a left-arm spinner, however as his bowling ability declined, he worked on developing his batting. On one occasion though, he got an opportunity to showcase his bowling talent at the highest level. Against Pakistan in a high-scoring Test match, he got the wicket of Mohammad Yousuf that prompted a fantastic reaction from him.

Bowling left-arm over the wicket, he flighted one outside leg stump inviting a big shot from the batsmen. Yousuf accepted the invitation and danced down the pitch, however, failed to get the required elevation. He hit the ball straight back to Richardson who took a fine return catch even as the umpire behind him ducked taking an evasive action. His joy knew no bounds and he sprinted across the square celebrating the wicket with a huge smile. One wondered if the Kiwi would ever stop, but he finally did. The celebration surely gives Imran Tahir a run for his money. The South African leg-spinner is also known for his exuberant celebrations.

Watch: Mark Richardson hilariously celebrates after taking a wicket