In a significant setback for England’s pace spearhead Jofra Archer, he has been ruled out of the upcoming white-ball tour of the Caribbean due to a setback in his rehabilitation from an elbow injury. Archer experienced elbow pain during training with the England squad at the World Cup in Mumbai, putting a halt to his comeback plans.
Setback in World Cup Training
Jofra Archer, who last played competitively in the IPL, suffered a recurrence of an elbow stress fracture while representing Mumbai Indians. The setback during training in Mumbai has dashed hopes of his inclusion in the white-ball tour of the Caribbean next month. England had initially eyed Archer’s return during the second half of the World Cup group stage, but the injury setback has forced a change of plans.
After an 18-month absence from the game due to elbow and back injuries, Archer made a comeback in January. He featured in four ODIs and three T20Is during England’s tours to South Africa and Bangladesh. However, his persistent elbow issues resurfaced during the IPL, leading to an extended period on the sidelines.
England faced a dilemma regarding Archer’s inclusion in the World Cup squad. Despite hopes for a late comeback, medical reports suggested a reserve role for Archer due to uncertainties about his fitness. The ECB decided to prioritize his rehabilitation over immediate participation.
Mumbai Training and Sudden Return
Archer joined the World Cup squad in Mumbai with the intention of continuing his rehabilitation and potentially contributing later in the tournament. However, after a couple of light training sessions, Archer felt pain in his elbow, prompting the decision to send him back home. The unexpected turn of events led to the call-up of Brydon Carse as a replacement.
Rob Key, England’s managing director, addressed Archer’s situation, stating, “It was a risk worth taking. He had his scans, and they all came up clear. He flies over here, comes out to Mumbai, bowls, and actually then he felt pain in his elbow. So then, the view was, ‘right, this is going to be a risk too far.'”
Archer’s absence from the West Indies tour squads is another setback for England. Rather than rushing his comeback, the team management emphasizes a cautious approach. Key mentioned, “Until he’s ready and fit, he won’t be in the squad – and even then, he’s going to take a period of building up. It’s not going to be straightforward, and we’ve got to be so careful.”
Despite limited appearances for England since March 2021, Archer remains a crucial asset. Having recently signed a two-year central contract, England expresses a strong desire to see Archer return to full fitness. Key emphasized, “We’re desperate for Jofra. We take that bet with him that we want him back fit and able to play for England because of the upside.”
