India vs England 2021: Huge blow for England as Jofra Archer gets ruled out of second Test


India vs England 2021: Huge blow for England as Jofra Archer gets ruled out of second Test
Jofra Archer

England were dealt a huge blow in their quest to pick up a second win in the Test series against India as their ace pacer Jofra Archer was ruled out of the second Test with elbow discomfort caused from the first Test in Chennai that England won. Archer was instrumental in the first innings of the first Test as he removed both Indian openers to lay down an excellent platform for England to pick up a huge first innings lead.

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He then returned to pick up the final wicket and seal victory in the second innings on Day 5. Archer provides pace to the bowling attack which otherwise consists of swing bowlers and spinners. His absence will thus be a huge blow to England’s hopes of winning the second Test.

‘Issue is not related to previous injury’ – ECB statement on Jofra Archer

Jofra Archer

The England Cricket Board (ECB) released a statement on his injury and said, “The issue is not related to any previous injury and it is hoped the treatment will allow the condition to settle down quickly, allowing the player to return to action in time for the third Test in Ahmedabad.”

It remains to be seen as to who would replace Archer in the second Test. England have the option of picking Stuart Broad or Chris Woakes. In the recent past, they have resorted to rotation among their bowlers and chosen Broad and James Anderson in alternate matches. However, England could go with both playing in the same Test due to Jofra Archer’s injury.

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Also Read: India vs England 2021: Fit-again Axar Patel to replace Shahbaz Nadeem in second Test; pitch to offer more turn – Reports