Richardson Optimistic but Faces Race Against Time for Ashes Return

Jhye Richardson remains hopeful of playing in the upcoming Ashes series despite only bowling for the first time since shoulder surgery earlier this week. The Western Australian quick, who has endured a difficult run with injuries, admitted the Ashes are still “a long way off” but insists his recovery is tracking well.

The 28-year-old underwent his third operation on his troublesome right shoulder in January in a bid to overcome ongoing dislocations and revive his red-ball career. Speaking at a media event in Perth to mark 100 days until the first Ashes Test, Richardson revealed he had bowled for the first time on Tuesday and was cautiously optimistic.

"Some were good, some were bad – a bit rusty – but it’s good to hit that milestone," Richardson said. "We’re not counting out Ashes cricket, but there’s a lot of work to do before then."

While Richardson could not confirm a return date for Western Australia in the Sheffield Shield, he hopes to play some domestic cricket – including possibly white-ball matches – before the Ashes series, which begins November 21.

Injuries have plagued Richardson’s career since his breakout Ashes performance in 2021, with shoulder and hamstring setbacks severely limiting his playing time. His most recent first-class match came in November 2024, when he dislocated his shoulder while celebrating a wicket.

Despite his limited recent game time, Richardson remains on selectors’ radar due to his pace and swing – attributes that are becoming increasingly rare among Australia's next generation of pacers. However, even at full fitness, he would face stiff competition behind established Test bowlers Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, Mitchell Starc, and Scott Boland.

Australia’s pace depth has also been tested recently, with injuries to Lance Morris and Michael Neser, while younger options like Xavier Bartlett and Fergus O'Neill lack Richardson’s x-factor.

A lingering concern is Richardson’s ability to field. Since his original shoulder injury in 2019, he has been unable to throw effectively or dive freely. While surgery has improved stability, he admitted it may take up to 18 months before he regains full throwing ability.

“The way it’s presenting now is stable, which is a nice feeling,” Richardson said. “Throwing is still an unknown. It’s a long-term goal, but bowling is progressing well.”

As the countdown to the Ashes continues, Richardson’s return would be a welcome boost for Australia – if he can prove his fitness in time.