West Australian fast bowler Jhye Richardson is on the cusp of a dramatic return to the Australian Test side, with the pace ace poised to make his long-awaited comeback in the Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.
Four-Year Wait Set to End for WA Quick
The 29-year-old speedster was seen marking out his run-up during the final preparations on Friday morning, a strong indication he will be part of a four-man pace attack for the crucial Ashes encounter. Richardson's last appearance in the baggy green was during the 2020/21 Ashes series in Adelaide, where he famously claimed a second-innings five-wicket haul.
His potential selection comes after a battle for the final bowling spots with Queensland's Michael Neser and Brendan Doggett. Tellingly, Doggett was absent from the MCG surface during the morning session, strongly suggesting selectors have settled on Richardson and Neser to support the frontline quicks.
Green Pitch and Cold Snap Influence Selection
Stand-in Australian captain Steve Smith confirmed the selection strategy during a Christmas-morning press conference, revealing that Victorian spinner Todd Murphy had been overlooked despite being in line to replace the injured Nathan Lyon. This decision was heavily influenced by the condition of the MCG wicket, which Smith described as "furry," and the overcast Melbourne weather.
Victoria is currently experiencing an unseasonal cold snap, with temperatures not expected to exceed 17 degrees Celsius on Boxing Day. These conditions are predicted to help the pitch retain its moisture and hold together, favouring the seam bowlers.
Strategic Comeback After Targeted Recovery
Richardson's journey back to the Test arena has been meticulously planned. He underwent shoulder surgery in January, which cut short his previous domestic season, with rehabilitation specifically targeted towards being fit for this Ashes series. His return adds significant firepower to the Australian bowling lineup.
In other team news, Steve Smith will lead the side in place of the injured Pat Cummins and has also taken over the middle-order batting spot vacated by dropped West Australian Josh Inglis. All eyes will now be on the MCG to see if Richardson can recapture his match-winning form on cricket's biggest stage.
