The only silver lining among England bowlers, who played the first Test against West Indies, Jofra Archer has been excluded from the second Test against the West Indies beginning today at Manchester following a breach of team’s bio-security protocols.
The decision was confirmed by England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) in an official statement.
Although not clear what the breach was, Jofra Archer will now have to self-isolate himself for five days and would be allowed to return to the English squad after two negative COVID-19 tests.
The decision has been conveyed to the visitors West Indies, who are satisfied with the measures that have been imposed according to the official communique.
‘Extremely sorry’ Jofra Archer
The Barbadian-born English cricketer was ‘extremely sorry’ for putting himself, his team and management in danger.
“I am extremely sorry for what I have done,” said Jorfa Archer in ECB official statement.
“I have put, not only myself, but the whole team and management in danger. I fully accept the consequences of my actions, and I want to sincerely apologise to everyone in the bio-secure bubble.
The 25-year-old right arm pacer felt that he may have let both the teams down.
“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.”
England had yesterday, July 15, named a 13 men strong squad, which included uncapped Sussex pacer Ollie Robinson, Stuart Broad, Chris Woakes and Sam Curron, while resting James Anderson and Mark Wood. Archer was also part of the squad.
ECB has not named any replacements or included anyone to the squad post Jofra’s exclusion hours before the match, which means that the English management now have to decide who among Sam Curran, Chris Woakes and Sam Curran would be left out.
Jofra Archer was pick of the English bowlers in the second innings of the first Test with 3 wickets for 45 in 17 overs. He had almost brought back England team in match with his three initial wickets. His absence could be a significant blow the host, who would be aiming to pounce back in the series.
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