JOHANNESBURG, South Africa, CMC – West Indies are sweating on the fitness of opener Dale Richards after he dislocated his shoulder while fielding in his side’s 50-run loss to Australia in the Champions Trophy on yesterday.
He fell awkwardly while attempting to stop a ball and left the field immediately for treatment and never returned.
The right-hander did not bat in the Windies innings as they finished on 225 for nine in response to Australia’s 275 for eight at The Wanderers.
“It happened early in the game. He dove at a ball at cover and dislocated his shoulder,” said captain Floyd Reifer.
“It was unfortunate for him because he’s a guy … when he gives it, you can strike at the top [of the order].”
Richards is expected to have a full assessment on Sunday and will continue to get treatment on a daily basis in a race to be fit for Wednesday’s day/night match against India at the same venue.
Pacer Kemar Roach was forced to sit out the opening match against Pakistan last Wednesday after sustaining an injury ankle in a pre-tournament warm-up against South Africa.
