Born in Christchurch, Richard and his brothers played for Canterbury in the domestic league. His first-class debut came in the 1971/72 season, following an injury to his brother Dayle. He took a hat-trick in that match and earned a place in the New Zealand 'B' side. In 1972-73, he made his Test debut against Pakistan. Initially, he made little impact, taking 3-255 in his first two Tests.
In 1975, a shoulder injury forced him to shorten his run-up.
Wiry, rather than muscular in build, Hadlee was a special bowler; a thinking bowler. He was quick but never express pace. What set him apart from the crowd was his beautiful late out-swinger, the result of a wonderfully orthodox side-on action, and his ability to consistently produce it in all conditions.
