Jofra Archer returns to first-class action for Sussex against Kent as he prepares to prove his fitness in the lead up to England’s two-Test series against New Zealand in June.
Jofra Archer named in Sussex squad as England pacer set to return to first-class action (AFP Photo)
HIGHLIGHTS
- Jofra Archer named in Sussex squad for County Championship match against Kent
- Archer missed IPL 2021 with a finger injury for which he underwent surgery
- England take on New Zealand in a 2-Test series at home in June
England fast bowler Jofra Archer was named in Sussex’s 13-man squad for their County Championship match against Kent, starting May 13. Archer returns to first-class cricket after missing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 with a finger injury.
Archer underwent surgery to remove a glass fragment from a tendon on his right hand, an injury he sustained in January when an attempt to clean his fish tank went wrong. He was undergoing treatment for a long-term elbow problem at the time.
Having missed the first half of IPL 2021 before the tournament was suspended due to positive Covid-19 cases in bio-bubbles, the first-class game is likely to be Jofra Archer’s final opportunity to prove his fitness ahead of the two-Test series against England next month.
“Any team in world cricket would be excited to name Jofra in their squad for a game. Everybody is aware of his talents,” Sussex coach Ian Salisbury said.
The first test against New Zealand will be held at Lord’s from June 2-6 before the second Test in Birmingham from June 10. England also take on India in a 5-Test series from August after Virat Kohli’s men complete the World Test Championship final against New Zealand, starting June 18 in Southampton.
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