Jhye Richardson's disco-style sidestep is gaining traction, but his Perth Scorchers teammate Colin Munro says it won't be a move that can be unleashed often.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Richardson has been the standout bowler of the BBL this season, and his cheeky dismissal of Sydney Sixers star Josh Philippe further showcased the 24-year-old's versatility and creativity.
Just before he reached the bowling crease, Richardson unleashed an unexpected side-step to the left to change the line of his delivery.
The tactic work, with the ball cannoning into the stumps as Philippe shaped up for a ramp shot.
It lifted Richardson's wicket tally to 19 at a stunning average of 12.21 this season.
Richardson again looms as the key figure when the fourth-placed Scorchers take on the fifth-placed Brisbane Heat in a high-stakes clash at Marvel Stadium on Tuesday night.
Munro says batsmen shouldn't expect the side-step move to come out often, but that it was an effective weapon to have up Richardson's sleeve.
"I think it's a one-off sort of thing, or maybe two or three times in a spell just to create a bit of an angle," Munro said.
"Maybe it's a little variation without actually doing anything different to the ball.
"I don't think he'll want to be doing that every ball. It might put a little bit of extra pressure on his body in some areas where he wouldn't want it.
"A couple of balls here or there is probably the best thing."
Richardson's return from shoulder surgery has been so stunning that he is expected to be a lock for Australia's upcoming five-match T20 tour of New Zealand, starting in February.
NZ star Munro has kept a close eye on Richardson's heroics, and he'll be more than happy to pass on information to his fellow Kiwis ahead of that series.
"Hopefully he's taken all of his wickets now and will be smashed when he goes there," Munro said with a laugh.
"He's a game changer when he's in the team. I wish him all the best if he does go."
The Heat have won four or their past five matches to surge back into title contention.
Brisbane boast plenty of firepower, led by master blaster Chris Lynn.
Lynn has posted scores of 50, 56, 48, 30, and 69 in his past five digs, and his battle against Richardson, Jason Behrendorff, and AJ Tye is set to be crucial.
Australian Associated Press
