Jofra Archer set to miss IPL 2020, confirms ECB

Jofra Archer and Rajasthan Royals hopes of seeing the right-handed fast bowling turn up in the upcoming season of the Indian Premier League [IPL] have been officially ended by the latest statement by England and Wales Cricket Board [ECB]. The mercurial fast bowler, who first featured in the cash-rich league back in 2018, has grappled with injury in the past few months.

Archer made a whirlwind debut for England last year and with consistent performances in the World Cup and the Ashes, the Barbados-born bolter proceeded to establish himself as one of the few all-format Internationals in the current era. But, with the increased workload, Archer’s body began to post difficult questions and it all came to a head when he was ruled out for almost 3-4 months due to an elbow injury post the first Test in South Africa.

ECB issues statement regarding Jofra Archer’s comeback-trial 

Archer had recently said that he is recovering well, giving birth to speculations as to whether an early comeback [during the IPL] is on the cards. But, the latest press-release by the ECB, which says that Archer will undergo another scan in Mid-April, post which the decision will be taken on his comeback, has officially put an end to all those speculations.

“Following a repeat MRI scan undertaken this week in London, Jofra Archer has been reviewed by the ECB medical team and is progressing as expected from the stress fracture to his right elbow sustained during the South Africa tour in January,” ECB said via a press-release

The statement further added that Archer- if deemed fit- will have to play County championship games in May in order to give himself the best possible chance to get back into the groove and make himself available for selection for the Test series against the West Indies.

“He will have a further scan in mid-April before a return to competitive cricket. His focus will be playing for England, starting with the West Indies Test series, which commences in early June. He will play County Championship cricket in May for Sussex to ensure his preparation is optimal for Test cricket.

“His current rehabilitation will progress to a full gym programme and continued running work over the next two weeks. His back to bowling programme will commence towards the end of March working closely with ECB Young Lions coach and seam bowling specialist Jon Lewis and Sussex bowling coach James Kirtley,” added the statement.