Jofra Archer set to return to English team for ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024, Says Jos Buttler
England captain Jos Buttler has expressed optimism over availability of Jofra Archer for the upcoming T20 World Cup defense, starting June 2nd.
Archer, a key member of England’s 2019 World Cup triumph, hasn’t played competitively in a year due to an elbow injury. However, following extensive rehabilitation, Buttler believes the fast bowler is on track for a return.
“We’re all aware of his exceptional talent,” Buttler said. “It’s been a challenging few years for him, missing out due to injuries. But with a player of his caliber, there’s always optimism that the medical team can help him regain his peak form.”
Archer’s debut for England came just before their 2019 World Cup victory, where he memorably bowled the super over against New Zealand at Lord’s.
Though he debuted in Tests shortly after, injuries began plaguing him that year. Since then, he’s battled elbow and back issues, restricting him to just 49 international appearances.
Jofra Archer will not be playing in IPL 2024 either
These setbacks forced him to miss England’s successful T20 World Cup campaign in Australia (2022) and their recent 50-over World Cup defense in India.
However, a positive sign emerged when Archer trained with the England squad during their white-ball tour of the West Indies late last year.
Further fueling comeback hopes was his unexpected participation in a match for his former school team.
“It’s incredibly exciting for him to be nearing a return to competitive cricket,” Buttler continued. “As captain, he’s a bowler you can truly rely on. He brings a lot to the game, not just for England but for the entire cricketing world when he’s at his best.”
“I think as a player he brings so much to the game – not just for us obviously but for the cricket world when he’s performing.”
Archer is currently in India, preparing for the English season with his county side Sussex. The T20 World Cup kicks off on June 2nd, with matches spread across the West Indies and the United States. England’s tournament opener is against Scotland on June 4th, in Archer’s native Barbados.
