Kelly in mix after speedy recovery
PERTH Scorchers fast bowler Matt Kelly was “up and about” after a sickening blow to the face in Sunday’s BBL win over the Melbourne Renegades forced him to be subbed out.
Kelly could be cleared for Saturday’s qualifying final against the Sydney Sixers but may be pushed out by the return of Jhye Richardson from injury.
Blood gushed from Kelly’s face after being hit in the head by a ball thrown in from the outfield that clipped non-striker Aaron Finch’s bat on the way through.
Kelly collapsed to the ground, dazed. After receiving medical treatment, he was taken from the field and subbed out of the game.
Scorchers coach Adam Voges said after the game there appeared to be no lingering issues but medical staff would have the final say on whether Kelly could play the Sixers on Saturday.
“He’s OK; he’s up and about,” Voges said.
“He got a little cut on his jaw. We used our concussion sub and I’m sure he’ll go through those protocols.
“I’ll leave that up to our medicos. Hopefully he’ll be available for Saturday, but we’ll just wait and see.”
The make-up of Perth’s bowling attack for the final could take the whole week to form. Richardson is yet to be cleared of his hamstring injury and has played just seven of 14 games the season, the last on January 4.
The speedster has taken 19 wickets though and is strong at the start of an innings when paired with Jason Behrendorff.
While Richardson is reportedly bowling at full speed and on track to play the first final, coach Adam Voges said he had yet to be cleared for selection.
“I’m not sure yet,” he said.