Player of the Final Jhye Richardson says he never let the discussion around the selection in the XI affect him in the lead-up to Saturday’s BBL triumph.
Richardson’s spot in the Scorchers side was up for discussion throughout the lead-up, following the return to fitness of left-arm quick Jason Behrendorff.
Scorchers coach Justin Langer admitted he and the selectors mulled over the decision for days, before opting for the 20-year-old who had been sore with ankle and side issues.
Their selection was justified, Richardson starred with three wickets, a brilliant run out and a catch.
“I prepared as if I was playing and if I was to get out there, then I’d be fully prepared for it,” Richardson said.
“I’ve had a lot of soreness throughout my career already.
“I know my body pretty well and I backed myself to get up for it.
“I wasn’t thinking much out there. All the adrenaline took over.”
Before Richardson’s three wickets with the ball, the youngster produced a brilliant run out to dismiss Nic Maddinson for one.
“Run outs always change momentum pretty quickly,” Richardson said.
“I was actually looking forward to it. I love fielding the most out of the three disciplines of cricket.
“I pride myself on my fielding, I tried to balance myself and get it in as quick as I could.”
Richardson also added the scalps of Brad Haddin and Moises Henriques to his BBL|06 list which included Brendon McCullum and Travis Head already.
The quick had the Sixers pair both caught by Michael Klinger at midwicket.
“I was just trying to bang it in and use the pace of the pitch,” he said.
“Luckily enough they hit them in the air and the good fielding side that we are, took the catches pretty easily as well.”