IPL 2018: Kane Richardson skips IPL for potential Test spot

Kane Richardson has devoted himself to first-class cricket instead of being lured by an IPL contract

What's the news?

Australia fast bowler Kane Richardson has preferred the Sheffield Sheild over IPL cricket, having not submitted his name for the auctions for the eleventh edition in 2018.

"I've put in a little bit more of a goal to play more Shield cricket and I thought if I play upwards of seven Shield games, the body is going to need a fair bit of a rest,” the right arm quick explained of his decision to skip the lucrative T20 league to cricket.com.au.

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Despite the fact that Richardson has an experience of only six first-class matches, he first played in the IPL in 2013, getting picked by the now-defunct Pune Warriors India for a hefty price of US $700,000. Post that, he represented the Rajasthan Royals, who are now returning to the fold following a two-year ban, and subsequently the Royal Challengers Bangalore. His last IPL game for Bangalore was against the Sunrisers Hyderabad in the 2016 season.

The heart of the matter

Alongside pushing for a spot in Australia's Test bowling line-up, what also prompted the 26-year-old to remain in his country during the IPL was his impending marriage, scheduled for this April. However, he understands that at his age, he still has time to pursue IPL in the future.

"It's a hard decision because of the financial rewards. Not a lot of guys do it. I experienced it [the IPL] as a young bloke and made a little bit of money over there so that makes it easier having had that happen. I'm still only 27 next, so hopefully, I can get over there a few more times.”

What's next?

Richardson is currently with the national side playing in the first-ever international T20 tri-series, conducted across the Tasman Sea with England being the third side along with Australia and New Zealand. In the first two matches of the tournament so far, he has picked up only a single wicket.

Author's Take

This decision from a young quick like Richardson displays his maturity and commitment towards the longer format, despite being fully aware to what extent an IPL contract could have filled his pockets. Like Mitchell Marsh, who opted for county cricket instead of the IPL, Richardson seems to have made the right move.