Jhye back on target for Aussie tour spot

JHYE Richardson has kept a lid on any potential Australian call-up after he extended his lead at the top of the BBL wicket-taking list with another impressive performance for Perth Scorchers.

Richardson, who has played for Australia in all three formats, took 2-10 off three overs in a dominant display at Marvel Stadium against Brisbane Heat on Tuesday night.

He has taken 21 wickets in 11 games at an average of 11.5 and an economy rate of just 6.3, three scalps ahead of his nearest rival Adam Zampa.

Asked about a return to the Australian side, Richardson (pictured) said his current focus was on BBL duties.

“I think playing for Australia is always a bonus and that’s always what you want to achieve,” he said. “But what my focus is on is doing well for the Scorchers and hopefully staying up the top of the table to make finals, so that’s what I’ve got my eyes on at the moment ... and whatever happens after that will be.”

Australia is close to finalising details for the Test tour of South Africa, expected to depart in late February, with selectors likely to take an extended squad given the difficulty of flying players in at short notice due to COVID-19 restrictions. This gives Richardson a strong chance of selection.

Due to a scheduling clash, Australia is also set to face New Zealand in five T20 internationals during that same period, which further broadens Richardson’s chances of a return to national colours.

The 24-year-old impressed in his debut Test series against Sri Lanka in early 2019 but shoulder injuries have curtailed his rise in the international game.

He admitted to feeling anxious before this BBL season.