England 2019 World Cup hero Jofra Archer is all set to return to the England national side as he tries to prove his fitness for the upcoming Pakistan series in May. Archer, who has been struggling with injury issues in recent times last played for England in March 2023 during the Bangladesh tour and has since then been missing in action. With the T20 World Cup taking place in the United States and the West Indies, Archer will be eager to board the England team flight.
Archer in contention for T20 World Cup
“Absolutely,” Rob Key told Sky Sports News when asked if Archer is a consideration for the World Cup squad. “Jofra, he’s been out on Sussex’s pre-season out in India. He bowled quickly out there, he bowled really well.”
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Rob Key, England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) Director is optimistic about the inclusion of the pacer who helped England win the ODI World Cup in 2019. It is reported that Archer is in the Caribbean islands and is working hard with his fitness. His availability will depend on the progress he has made during the next few days.
“He’s now just gone back in the Caribbean, where he is going to play a little bit of club cricket, stuff like that – all about getting himself ready for that World T20. He’ll play hopefully the Pakistan series. But it’s always fingers crossed at the moment with Jofra,” Key added.
England’s T20 World Cup journey
England are the defending champions of the T20 World Cup and were handed a huge setback earlier in the week when Ben Stokes pulled out of the tournament. He played an eccentric part in England winning the T20 World Cup having scored unbeaten 52 and leading the English side home. If Archer is passed fit, it will be a huge boost for England’s chances considering the absence of Stokes.
It is also worth noting, that England management has already cleared that Archer won’t be considered for the Test format until 2025. England begin their T20 World Cup quest against neighbours Scotland, while they also face Ashes rivals Australia on June 8 in Barbados.
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