Oz coach Langer backs Richardson’s decision to pull out of series

Sydney: Australia’s national cricket team coach Justin Langer has praised fast bowler Kane Richardsons decision to withdraw from the upcoming limited-overs series against India and spend time with his family and newborn son.

“When we talk about family and looking after each other and in this case with Kane, he has made a very courageous decision to not play this series and be with his family,” Langer was quoted as saying by Channel Nine.

Cricket Australia replaced him with pace bowler Andrew Tye for the series which includes three ODIs and three T20 Internationals starting November 27.

“It was a difficult decision for Kane to make but one which has the complete support of the selectors and the entire playing squad,” CA national selector Trevor Hohns said on Wednesday.

“Kane wanted to remain in Adelaide with Nyki and their newborn son. We will always support our players and their families; even more so given the challenging environment we are in. We will miss what he brings to the team but completely understand and support his decision,” he added.

Tye, who was part of the Australia squad which went to England for a limited-overs series earlier this year, has so far played seven ODIs and 26 T20Is, in which he has picked up 12 and 37 wickets, respectively.