Hardie makes strides after Scorchers batting promotion

Hardie’s imperious form since being promoted to No. 3 has been a key factor in Perth Scorchers making yet another run at the title.

Four-time champions Scorchers sit atop the BBL ladder with two games remaining and have lost just once at their home fortress.

The young gun has shown an ability to adapt his game across formats, having scored a remarkable 174 not out in last season’s drawn Sheffield Shield final to secure WA the title.

All-time great Ponting floated Hardie as a bolter for the Sydney Test against South Africa, and the towering right-hander who averages 45 with the bat in first-class cricket seems destined for higher honours.

That could include the IPL, with fellow West Australian fast-bowling allrounder Cameron Green recently sold at auction for $3.15 million – a record price for an Australian player.

Hardie did not nominate this season and is believed to be considering a return to county cricket which could place him in the sights of national selectors ahead of the Ashes series.

“I’ve put my name in the draft before but didn’t put my name in this year for various reasons,” Hardie told reporters after Wednesday night’s game. “Obviously if you put a number like that on the end of it, it’s silly to say no.

“I don’t really want to pigeonhole myself into any sort of format. Just being able to contribute in all the games possible. That allrounder role takes its toll on the body in four-day cricket but I also love that challenge…I’m enjoying playing all three while I can.”

Hardie has not bowled in the BBL since straining his groin earlier this season but said he was ready if needed, although that may be unlikely given the Scorchers’ enviable depth.