Australia and Western Australia fast bowler Jhye Richardson has been added to the National Performance Squad to tour India this month.
Richardson, who made his Test debut against Sri Lanka at the Gabba in January, suffered a dislocated shoulder while fielding in the second ODI between Australia and Pakistan in Sharjah in March.
He was subsequently ruled out of contention for Australia’s World Cup squad, but has been added to the NPS for the trip to Chennai after a period of rehabilitation.
Richardson replaces WA teammate Aaron Hardie in the squad.
The 22-year-old, who has made 23 appearances for Australia across all formats will work under the tutelage of Australian legend Glenn McGrath at the MRF Pace Foundation and may participate in the squad’s T20 and 50-over fixtures against the MRF Academy.
“It is wonderful to have the quality of someone like Jhye on this tour,” Pathways Manager Graham Manou said.
“The tour affords Jhye the opportunity to further hone his skills in subcontinent conditions under the watchful eye of Glenn McGrath and (NPS Head Coach) Chris Rogers.
“It also provides an opportunity for the younger players to work alongside Jhye. It will present them with a unique perspective of what it takes to be an international player and the discipline required to bounce back from a significant injury.
Cricket Australia physiotherapist Kevin Sims said Richardson is “ready to bowl in matches” after completing one outing in Darwin.
“He is bowling off his full run and has good shoulder function,” Sims said.
“The plan is for him to play matches in both formats while on tour and we expect he will be able to bowl however many overs are required in the games he plays”
The NPS touring party are due to arrive in India on 10 August.
Image: icc-cricket
