Jhye Richardson is poised to play his first game in Australia since January, having been named in Perth Scorchers' squad for the Top End T20 tournament in Darwin.
Richardson is the standout name in a squad primarily composed of younger players on the fringes of the BBL and Western Australia teams, along with some from the WA academy. Despite receiving a Cricket Australia contract in March, Richardson has been sidelined since injuring himself during the BBL and has only made one appearance for Delhi Capitals in the IPL earlier this year.
Recently part of an Australia training camp in Brisbane, Richardson was not considered for the upcoming tour of Scotland and England. Selectors are taking a long-term approach, aiming to resolve the injury issues that have plagued his international career. He was slated to return for an ODI against West Indies last season before suffering a side strain.
National selector George Bailey mentioned last month that Richardson is now fit and ready, looking for match opportunities. He expressed optimism about Richardson getting more chances throughout the summer.
Joining Richardson in the squad is fellow fast bowler Matt Kelly, whose season was also cut short by injury. Sam Fanning has been appointed captain, and Baxter Holt, who recently transferred to Western Australia from New South Wales, is included as well.
Stand-in coach Tim MacDonald stated that the tournament offers a chance for both Richardson and Kelly to regain form in a competitive setting. He highlighted their importance to the Scorchers and WA, expressing excitement about their return to action.
The Top End competition will also feature Northern Territory Strike, Pakistan A, ACT, Melbourne Renegades, Melbourne Stars, and a Bangladesh High Performance side.