He played first-class cricket for South Australia, mostly as an opening batsman and off-spin bowler, from 1918–19 to 1926–27.

In his final season he helped South Australia win the Sheffield Shield by scoring 607 runs at 67.44, including an innings of 232 against Queensland.

[6] Richardson played for Bacup and Burnley Cricket Clubs in the Lancashire League in the 1930s.

At his first match at Todmorden Cricket Club's ground Richardson was so overwhelmed by the scenery he stopped Todmorden player Fred Root in his bowling run up so he could admire the view.

[9] In 1935, during his coaching stint at Queen's Royal College, Port of Spain,[10] Richardson served as an umpire in two Tests between West Indies and the touring English team.