When he captured his 374th test wicket on the 12th of November 1988 against India in Bangalore, he became the world record holder and went on to become one of the greatest all rounders in the history of the game, as he captured 431 test wickets & scored over 3000 test runs.
Richard was the youngest of 3 brothers to play first class cricket and his father Walter Hadlee was a NZ Captain. He made his debut for Canterbury in 1971/72 and later earned a permanent place in the New Zealand Test team after claiming 10 Indian wickets.
He played county cricket at the Nottinghamshire County Club and became the first past 400 wickets on Lancaster Park. His greatest single achievement was his nine wickets in an innings at Brisbane when he helped set up New Zealand's first Test win over Australia on Australian soil and the first series win over Australia (personally taking 33 wickets in the series).
With centuries against both the West Indies and Sri Lanka and some wonderful fielding feats Richard was a very effective one-day player. To “get it right” he believes you not only have to be fit and develop an efficient technique but mental attitude, belief and confidence are also very important.
Richard adapted to various pitch conditions and analysed the weaknesses of other batsmen. He became clinically efficient operating off a shortened run up creating better control and the ability to bowl for longer periods of time. He could still bowl the odd quicker ball and his results were more effective.
Dennis Lillee was the most influential person and role model during his career – fast bowler, big, strong, fit, confident, aggressive and with marvellous skills and technique.
Richard’s dedication and commitment to cricket earned him a Knighthood in 1990 and then followed several years in the role of public relations ambassador for cricket in New Zealand and chairman of New Zealand's selectors.
As a coach he works with pace bowlers in the cricket academy in Christchurch. The goal is to make NZ cricket competitive and improve in the international ratings and there is work being done to lift standards & fulfill player potential.
Richard also runs his own successful company importing and distributing cricket equipment and memorabilia.
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