Perth Scorchers fans have received a major boost with confirmation star fast bowler Jhye Richardson will return to the side for their upcoming Big Bash League fixture. Richardson is set to bolster the Scorchers' bowling attack for their highly anticipated clash against the Brisbane Heat this Friday night at the Gabba.
Voges Confirms Return Amid Langer Criticism
Scorchers coach Adam Voges has officially confirmed Richardson's availability, putting to bed any speculation about his involvement. This announcement comes after former coach Justin Langer publicly questioned the logic of sending Richardson to Adelaide to train with the Australian Test squad, calling the move "zero sense" in his exclusive column for The West Australian.
However, Voges denied the club felt any frustration over Richardson's unavailability for Sunday's opening victory over the Sydney Sixers. He emphasised that the planning with Cricket Australia had been long-term, dating back to Richardson's surgery around the same time last year.
"These conversations with Cricket Australia and the Australian Test team have been going on for a long time now," Voges stated. "It is what it is. We'll just welcome Jhye back for this game and we're certainly looking forward to having him back in Scorchers colours."
Bolstering an Inexperienced Attack
Richardson's return is timely for the Scorchers, who fielded a somewhat green bowling unit in their first outing. The five-wicket win over the Sixers revealed some areas for improvement, especially with the notable absence of experienced campaigners Jason Behrendorff and Andrew Tye.
Voges acknowledged the changing dynamic of his bowling group but saw positive signs. "We always knew it was going to look different this year and that guys were going to get some opportunity," he said. "We are going to take some good lessons out of that game... I thought there was some really promising signs."
The coach highlighted that the attack will continue to strengthen, with English import David Payne set to join the squad midway through the tournament. Richardson's immediate inclusion, however, provides a world-class boost. "I think any time Jhye comes back into our line-up, we're stronger for it. He'll be a welcome addition," Voges added.
Batting Firepower on Full Display
While the bowling had room to grow, the Scorchers' powerhouse batting line-up wasted no time showcasing its destructive potential in the season opener. In a rain-shortened 11-over innings against the Sixers, Perth batsmen launched an impressive 10 sixes.
Voges was delighted with the aggressive intent, singling out young gun Cooper Connolly for setting the tone after an early wicket. "Coop started it... to be able to then counterpunch and hit that ball for six, the last ball of the first over, just quickly shifts the momentum again in a shortened game," he explained.
The coach also praised contributions from Finn Allen, Aaron Hardie, and Laurie Evans, emphasising the team's strategy. "We wanted to build a batting line-up with power that bats deep and hopefully we can show that throughout the tournament," Voges said.
With Richardson now rejoining the squad in Brisbane, the Perth Scorchers are shaping up as a formidable force as they prepare for their Friday night blockbuster against the Heat.
