England have not forgotten about ‘Black Lives Matter’, says Jofra Archer

England: England fast bowler Jofra Archer has said the team have not forgotten about the ‘Black Lives Matter’ movement after former West Indies bowler Michael Holding criticised the players for not kneeling before games. England and West Indies players took a knee before each game in their three-match Test series in July but they discontinued the gesture for the Pakistan series as well as the other two series.

“We have not forgotten, no one here has forgotten about Black Lives Matter,” Archer was quoted as saying to Sky Sports. “I think it is a bit harsh for Michael Holding to not do some research before criticising. I’m pretty sure he doesn’t know what is going on behind the scenes,” he added.

“I don’t think he has spoken to (CB chief executive) Tom Harrison. I have spoken to Tom and we have stuff running in the background,” the  England pacer said. “People can be prosecuted a bit easier, though I think it may have to go a bit further as some people are still a bit worried of what could happen to them. As long as there is social media and the person doesn’t have to confront you I think it will still go on. All we can do is try and act accordingly, report it and do what’s best.”

Archer said he is strong enough to deal with such an issue but is worried about mentally fragile people. “I think I am strong enough to deal with it but what happens when they start targeting someone who is not as mentally strong and it starts affecting them? We have to try and stamp it out as much as possible,” he said.

“I saw one lady comment about my chain but chains have nothing to do with cricket and if she knew me she would know I have had my chain since I was 14 or 15. You can’t make everyone happy but the majority are happy and that makes me happy,” he added.

Previously England also wore “Black Lives Matter” logos on their shirts during their test series against West Indies.