Archer Bowed Out Again: Injury Sidelines Pacer from Windies Clash

England fast bowler Jofra Archer will be out of the subsequent three-match ODI series against West Indies from May 29, after suffering a right thumb injury playing in the Indian Premier League. The 30-year-old, who has been suffering from a number of injuries since his last appearance in a Test in February 2021, was set to be back in action via England Lions' series against India A in June, but this setback puts that on hold.

 

Archer's injury, which he sustained while fielding for Rajasthan Royals, will keep him away for at least a month, with the England medical team reviewing him in the next two weeks to set the timeline for his return. His non-availability also raises doubts over his inclusion in England's five-Test series against India starting June 20.

 

Lancashire left-arm seamer Luke Wood is Archer's replacement for the ODI series. Experienced pacer Chris Woakes, who is recovering from an ankle injury, is also in the running for a recall through the England Lions team.

 

Though out of red-ball cricket for a significant amount of time, Archer remains part of England's future plans, especially with the Ashes in Australia pending in 2025/26. However, his recent injury setback is a hurting blow to England's bowling resources heading into a mad summer.

 

Source: Indian Express, Hindustan Times, Sky Sports