Scorchers Fast Bowler Aims to Break 150km/h Speed Barrier
Perth Scorchers fast bowler Jhye Richardson is on track to break the 150km/h speed barrier, a significant milestone he is keen to reach soon. This aspiration comes after he showcased his skills in a recent match against the Melbourne Stars, where he recorded impressive bowling figures of 4 wickets for 16 runs over just 3.2 overs. This performance contributed to the Scorchers clinching the top position in the BBL|15 standings.
Richardson’s Remarkable Comeback
Richardson’s journey back to peak fitness has not been easy. He missed 10 months of playing time due to multiple surgeries on his right shoulder, an injury that has plagued him since 2019. His shoulder issues stemmed from a dislocation while fielding during an ODI match against Pakistan.
Throughout his recovery, which involved several rounds of rehabilitation and surgery, Richardson faced significant physical challenges. In an unusual incident in November 2024, he dislocated his shoulder while celebrating with a teammate. This setback led to further surgery in January 2025, aimed at providing greater stability to his shoulder.
Pushing the Limits of Speed
Despite the hurdles, Richardson is optimistic about his return to form. He has previously achieved speeds of around 150km/h. During his recent match, he reached a speed of 140km/h, indicating significant progress. However, he is cautious about pushing himself too hard, emphasizing the need for a gradual recovery process.
“There’s still a process to go through with this shoulder,” said Richardson. He acknowledges that building strength and stability is essential, alongside the need to develop the power necessary for fast bowling.
Current Standings in BBL|15
| Team | Matches Played | Wins | Losses | Total Points |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Perth Scorchers | 10 | 7 | 3 | 14 |
| Hobart Hurricanes | 10 | 6 | 3 | 13 |
| Melbourne Stars | 10 | 6 | 4 | 12 |
| Sydney Sixers | 9 | 5 | 3 | 11 |
| Brisbane Heat | 9 | 5 | 4 | 10 |
| Adelaide Strikers | 10 | 4 | 6 | 8 |
| Melbourne Renegades | 10 | 3 | 7 | 6 |
| Sydney Thunder | 10 | 2 | 8 | 4 |
With the Scorchers now set to host their first match of the finals series against the Hobart Hurricanes at Optus Stadium, Richardson’s return to form will be crucial. The club and Richardson himself will be looking forward to him stepping up further in the playoffs while he continues his pursuit of that elusive 150km/h bowling speed.
