Archer to miss ODI series against WI

A thumb injury has ruled Barbadian-born England fast bowler Jofra Archer out of the upcoming three-match One Day International series against West Indies.

Archer was expected to take part in the series beginning next week, but an injury to his thumb has led to him being replaced in the squad by fellow pacer Luke Wood.

He first sustained the injury while fielding during Rajasthan Royals’ one-run defeat against Kolkata Knight Riders in the Indian Premier League on May 4.

Although it initially appeared to be a minor issue, further assessments revealed ligament damage, and following the suspension of the tournament earlier this month, Archer did not return to India for this week’s resumption.

The injury has also cast doubt over Archer’s possible inclusion in England’s Test squad for next month’s five-match series against India.

It is just the latest setback for the 30-year-old Archer, who has been battling with a series of long-term injuries since 2021, including an elbow problem that required multiple operations, and a stress fracture of the back.

(CMC)