Ace England fast bowler Jofra Archer has been ruled out of the second Test in Old Trafford for breaching protocols. Incidentally, the second Test starts from July 16 (Wednesday) and this will be a massive blow to the host.
Meanwhile, the announcement has been made just hours before the commencement of the Test following Archer’s breach of the team’s bio-secure protocols. Jofra Archer was one of the star performers for England in otherwise a poor effort from the home side in the first Test.
Archer ruled out of 2nd Test
However, the Barbados-born fast bowler pleaded guilty and apologised to everyone for his actions. Archer also said that he is extreme pain putting the team into trouble keeping in view the series.
“I am extremely sorry for what I have done,” Archer said. “I have put, not only myself, but the whole team and management in danger and fully accept the consequences of my actions, and I want to sincerely apologise to everyone in the bio-secure bubble.
“It deeply pains me to be missing the Test match, especially with the series poised. I feel like I have let both teams down, and again I am sorry,” he added.Â
Meanwhile, Jofra Archer copped a lot of criticisms after going wicketless in the first innings of the first Test. However, the youngster bounced back in style scalping three wickets to England on top in the second innings. But Jermaine Blackwood and Roston Chase steadied the innings and took West Indies over the rope.
The English side rested veteran James Anderson and Mark Wood for the second Test. As a result, Jofra Archer was in contention to make it to the playing XI. But with Archer now ruled out, it will be interesting to see who makes it into the playing XI.
