Australia pacer Jhye Richardson has ruled himself out of the remainder of Big Bash League (BBL) 2024-25 as he has opted to undergo surgery to stabilise his shoulder. Richardson dislocated his shoulder in November but was selected in Australia's squad for fourth and fifth Test of Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25.
Earlier, Richardson was not named in Australia's squad for Sri Lanka tour in the absence of captain Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood. Recently, he missed a few games of Sheffield Shield after he hurt his shoulder while celebrating a wicket.
"After careful consideration and many discussions with my medical team, I've made the decision to undergo shoulder surgery to improve stability and reduce the risk of future injury," Richardson said in a press release.
"For the past few years, I have been limited by my shoulder in the field and know how increasingly important it is to be capable to back up my teammates."
"While it's a tough call, especially as it means I won't be able to finish the season with the Scorchers, this is the best option to set me up for a strong and healthy return to cricket."
"The timing of the surgery is crucial to ensure I have the best possible build up, including Shield cricket leading into next summer. I'll be giving everything I've got to the rehab process, determined to come back as the best version of myself."
"Thanks for all the support, and I can't wait to be back stronger for summer 2025/2026!"
Richardson's BBL numbers
Richardson on January 11 put on acrobatic show on the boundary for Perth Scorchers to save Sydney Sixers' Steve Smith's six. He was taken to the cleaners in the same encounter at Sydney Cricket Ground where he conceded 51 runs and remained wicketless. From five appearances in the ongoing BBL season, Richardson took eight wickets including two three-fers.
Richardson's last appearance in ODIs and T20Is
Richardson opted for surgery ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 squad announcement. He has played 15 ODIs and 18 T20Is so far due to his trouble with injuries. He played his last ODI and T20I against Sri Lanka in 2022.