New Zealand’s aggressive left-handed batsman Jesse Ryder is once again knocking the doors of the selectors. Ryder, who’s been away from the international cricket due to injuries and his off-field conduct, bludgeoned 136 from 57 balls against Ireland. Playing for his provincial side Otago, Ryder was at his aggressive best. Ryder reached his century in just 39 balls, and he showed no signs of injury which he encountered after a drunken brawl in a night club. Jesse Ryder smashed 18 boundaries and 8 massive sixes in his innings.
Earlier this month, New Zealand’s Coach Mike Hesson has hinted about Jesse Ryder’s possible return to International cricket. After his brawl in the night club, many thought that his international career is over. But Mike Hesson said that Ryder can make a comeback before the 2015 World Cup in Australia and New Zealand. But, New Zealand’s captain Brendon McCullum emphasised that the right character, rather than just runs, will be the only way for Ryder to be reconsidered.
Ryder’s last international match was against India in January, but he was dropped after a late-night spat in a night club.
Ryder has played 48 One Day Internationals (ODIs) for New Zealand and scored 1362 runs at an average of 33.21. New Zealand are struggling to find the right opening combination, and if Ryder can improve his off-field conduct, he might be in with a chance. Ryder, who was dropped after the second Test, spent the English summer playing county cricket for Essex and scored 369 runs at an average of 92.25 and strike rate of 122 in six List A innings.
There has never been any doubt regarding Ryder’s talent, but his off-conduct has been the biggest let-down for him and New Zealand. Ryder’s good form will tempt the Kiwi selectors, but he will have to make everyone extremely clear about expectations.
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By The Cricket Lounge
Image source: ESPNCRICINFO.COM
