Andrew Richardson - File

National fast bowler Andrew Richardson is now grinning from ear to ear after his late call-up to the Jamaica Tallawahs squad for the first Limacol Caribbean Premier League.

Richardson got the call after injury grounded Trinidad and Tobago's Ravi Rampaul. Rampaul failed to recover from an injury he picked up during the recent CELKON Mobile Tri-Nation one-day international series involving India and Sri Lanka.

"Despite not getting picked in the original player draft, I have been keeping myself in shape, knowing that this is cricket, and anything can happen, including injuries," said Richardson, shortly before the team's departure for Guyana yesterday.

good shape

"After the regional four-day cricket tournament I have not played much but I believe I am in pretty good shape, and if given the opport-unity, I hope to make a difference," Richardson added.

The Tallawahs are slated to play the Guyana Amazon Warriors tomorrow at the Providence Stadium in Guyana in their opening match.

Richardson, 31, who has represented the West Indies at the 'A' team level, but has failed to push on, also said though he does not have an impressive limited overs record, he believes he is an improved cricketer, who has the ability to adapt.

below par average

In thirty-three 50 overs regionally, Richardson has only been able to take 28 wickets for a below par average of 40.85, while he has played just one Twenty20.

"I can adapt to any form of the game. It's just another form of cricket, a matter of having your plans and bowling accordingly," he said.

Richardson is expected to lead the Tallawahs fast attack along with South African fast-bowling all-rounder, Vernon Philander.

The Tallawahs are set to play four away matches in Guyana, Trinidad and Tobago and St Lucia before returning home to play three matches at Sabina Park.

Richardson (centre) celebrating the fall of a wicket with his Jamaican teammates during a regional first-class match. - file