Perth Scorchers coach Adam Voges is hopeful Jhye Richardson will be fit for the team's Big Bash League season opener against the Sydney Sixers at Optus Stadium, as the fast bowler continues his comeback from shoulder surgery.
Richardson, 29, impressed in a practice match against the English Lions at Lilac Hill Park last week, bowling economically on a flat wicket. He is now in line to play for Australia A in an unofficial Test starting Friday at Allan Border Field.
Voges said the right-arm quick was trending in the right direction. “The CA game last week was another step in the right direction for Jhye, and he continues to build,” Voges said. “I would imagine that Australia A is firmly on the cards for Jhye. And we’ll hopefully see him after that.”
Richardson’s name has been discussed as an Ashes option later in the series, with his surgery timed for that purpose. Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins remain uncertain for the series. Cummins trained strongly in Perth but was not named in the squad for the second Test.
Richardson did not take a wicket against the Lions but felt better for the run. “This game was a lot about physical preparation for me and making sure that we can get through,” he said. “The shoulder’s feeling really good, and it’s feeling better and better with each ball.”
