Jhye Richardson and Riley Meredith unlikely to play IPL 2021 - Reports

In a heartbreaking development for the Punjab Kings fans, the team’s two main fast bowlers - Jhye Richardson and Riley Meredith are unlikely to play in the remaining matches of IPL 2021. According to cricket.com.au, four Australian players will skip the Phase of IPL 2021. 

The four names are Jhye Richardson, Riley Meredith, Kane Richardson and Pat Cummins. Kolkata Knight Riders already knew about the unavailability of Pat Cummins, while Kane Richardson had pulled out of IPL 2021 during the first phase itself. 

Royal Challengers Bangalore had signed New Zealand’s fast bowler Scott Kuggeleijn as a replacement for Richardson. However, the unavailability of two Punjab Kings fast bowlers was not expected, especially because the franchise splurged a large amount of money for their services. 

“Cricket.com.au reported on Thursday that Josh Hazlewood is also close to committing to play for Chennai.Fast bowlers Pat Cummins, Kane Richardson, Jhye Richardson and Riley Meredith are among the contracted Australian players who are not expected to return.”

How did Riley Meredith and Jhye Richardson perform for Punjab Kings? 

Riley Meredith and Jhye Richardson had never played in the Indian Premier League before the 2021 season. Still, the Punjab Kings spent big on their services. Both Aussie pacers failed to justify their price tag in the first phase of the competition played during April and May. 

Richardson played three matches for the Punjab Kings, scoring 15 runs and three wickets. Meanwhile, Meredith took four wickets in five matches. With the two star fast bowlers unavailable, Punjab Kings will have to sign replacements soon. 

According to cricket.com.au, Nathan Ellis, who took a hat-trick on T20I debut against Bangladesh, has been roped in by an IPL franchise as a replacement. The name of the franchise has not been disclosed yet, but it can most likely be Punjab Kings.