Chennai: In a major blow for England, ace fast bowler Jofra Archer is out of the second Test against India starting on Saturday (February 13) due to a niggle on his elbow, the England and Wales Cricket (ECB) said on Thursday (February 11).
“Jofra Archer will miss England men’s second Test against India in Chennai starting on Saturday after having an injection in his right elbow. The injection follows discomfort the fast bowler experienced during the 227-run win in the first Test at the same venue,” said the ECB in a statement.
The ECB also clarified that the fast bowler had not sustained the injury due to any previous niggle.”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.”
Archer’s injury means the XI that takes the field in the second Test will be in some way different from the winning combination at Chennai as wicket-keeper batsman Jos Buttler has been rested for the last three Tests and pacer James Anderson could also be rested. Head coach Chris Silverwood had indicated that England may rest veteran fast bowler James Anderson for the second Test in keeping with England’s rotation policy.
“I am not reluctant to change a winning team if it is the best thing to do for the players and the team and our longevity over a long period. Yes, he (Anderson) is a class act, but you’ll have to wait and see,” Silverwood told the media on Wednesday.
England defeated India by a massive 227-run on the fifth and final day of the first Test, and took a 1-0 lead in the four-match series. The second Test of the four-match series is slated to begin on Saturday (February 13) at the MA Chidambaram Stadium.
The Test will see fans in attendance for the first time in this series. Spectators up to 50 per cent capacity will be permitted inside the MA Chidambaram Stadium for this Test.
