Jhye Richardson, an Australian fast bowler, has disclosed a major regret from his cricket career: his choice to play in the Indian Premier League (IPL) in 2021. Richardson said in an open interview that the trip turned out to be a mistake and that he was not in the correct frame of mind at the time. His candid assessment highlights the significance of mental health in professional sports as well as the difficulties sportsmen have in striking a balance between their personal and professional obligations.
Richardson On Ipl 2021
Richardson received a massive ₹14 crore contract from the Punjab Kings to secure his maiden IPL contract before the 2021 season. Despite earning three scalps at 39 apiece in as many games, the 27-year-old was unable to justify the high price. Prior to the 2024 campaign, he made a comeback to the IPL with the Delhi Capitals, appearing in just one game. In a media appearance, Richardson said that he was under a lot of stress since he was having trouble returning home after the Indian Premier League. He encourages children to continue improving their mental health, as the West Australian disclosed.
“A lot of it started during COVID. My trip to the IPL – I left home not in the headspace that I probably should have been. Then things sort of hit the fan while I was away, and everything with COVID and not being able to get home and stuff like that, it just toppled on top of each other,” he said.
“I think you don’t realize what sort of space you’re in until it becomes too much, which is why now I encourage a lot of young cricketers to work on their mental health – even if they think that they’re going okay,” he further added.
Jhyle On Test Cricket: “I Desperately Want To Get Back There”
Richardson, who hasn’t played a Test since 2021, claimed that his primary source of motivation is his goal to eventually play for the national squad. He continued, stressing how crucial it will be to take care of his body.
“Obviously, it’s been frustrating. I think what held me together is knowing that when I can get back to competitive cricket, I will still enjoy it. I know what it’s like to play Test cricket and I desperately want to get back there.
“I know if I get a decent crack at it, hopefully, I can showcase some skills that allow me to get to the next level. I want to play Test cricket again. I want to play for Australia again. Ultimately, it’s just not letting go of that goal and keeping that within reach and doing everything I can to get my body right to get back there.”
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