Former Blackcaps opener Mark Richardson always was an oddball on the cricket pitch - but now the myth behind the man has another layer.
These days beter known as host on Three's The AM Show and The Block, Richardson appeared as fourth chair on The Project and admitted he used to do crossword puzzles during long tedious days out in the middle.
"I hated fielding," he said. "Fielding sucks.
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"I would take a cryptic crossword out in my pocket - I'd do the cryptic crossword through the day to keep my brain entertained.
"Of course, when the bowler ran in, you'd put it back in your pocket, but it kept me stimulated."
Richardson was commenting on a study that found exercise made a big difference in improving brain function. A brisk walk, climbing stairs or doing volunteer work were shown to improve cognitive function - particularly in older people.
Richardson, 47, admitted he rarely worried about fitness during his four-year international career, but on the rare occasions he did train seriously, he was better able to deal with the mental pressures of top-level sport.
As a methodical opening batsman, he averaged 44.77 runs across 38 tests, but was probably just as famous as the world's slowest runner between wickets - hence his nickname of 'Rigor', short for Rigor mortis.
Wearing a one-piece beige 'speed suit', Richardson developed a ritual of challenging the opposition's slowest runner to a race at the end of each tour.
Newshub.
