Jofra Archer undergoes minor elbow surgery in Belgium, set to return to IPL 2023 soon

Jofra Archer, the England pacer who is currently playing for Mumbai Indians in IPL 2023, underwent a minor elbow surgery in Belgium. According to reports, this was the fifth surgery Archer had in the last 25 months.

Jofra Archer’s history of Elbow injury

Archer’s elbow injury had kept him out of action for over a year. After playing Mumbai Indians’ first game against Royal Challengers Bangalore, he missed the next four games due to a little niggle. Archer then returned to the field for the match against Punjab Kings on April 22, where he bowled all four overs and even clocked 145kmph at regular intervals. However, he was rested for the next match against Gujarat Titans, which Mumbai lost by 55 runs.

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) medical team has been monitoring Archer’s condition closely, as he had made a comeback following stress fractures to his elbow and back. The ECB has been in constant touch with the Mumbai Indians camp as well.

According to The Telegraph, the ECB confirmed that Archer had visited his specialist in Belgium, and underwent a minor procedure before returning to India. The English daily also stated that Archer’s condition is constantly being monitored as he would be joining the English Test squad for the Ashes after the conclusion of the IPL.

Set to return to action soon

Despite the surgery, Archer is expected to return to action this weekend against Rajasthan Royals. Mumbai Indians will be looking to get their campaign back on track after losing their last two matches.

In 2021, Archer suffered persistent elbow problems, which were eventually diagnosed as a stress fracture, ruling him out of the T20 World Cup and Ashes. However, Mumbai Indians still roped him in for a whopping sum of Rs 8 crore in the mega auctions. Earlier this year, he also played for the franchise’s Cape Town branch in the new SA20.

Meanwhile, Sussex has indicated that the pacer might not play any first-class cricket for them before the much-awaited series against Australia at home.

Praises for Archer’s performance in IPL 2023

Despite his injury, Archer’s performances in IPL 2023 have been impressive, with his speed and accuracy being a key asset for Mumbai Indians.

Aakash Chopra, former Indian cricketer and commentator, had praised Archer’s captaincy skills during the match against Royal Challengers Bangalore, calling it a ‘brilliant move’ to bring himself on to bowl in the 19th over.

Archer’s minor elbow surgery in Belgium may have raised some concerns, but the pacer’s imminent return to action for Mumbai Indians is good news for both the team and their fans. With the support of the ECB medical team, Archer will be looking to make a strong impact in IPL 2023 and the upcoming Ashes series.