England Announces Test Squad: Archer Ruled Out, Bairstow Makes Triumphant Return .
Jofra Archer’s Ashes campaign has come to an abrupt halt as the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) confirmed the fast bowler’s unavailability due to a stress fracture in his right elbow.
This news emerged while England announced their Test squad to take on Ireland next month. Archer, the 28-year-old speedster from Sussex, who recently showcased his skills in the Indian Premier League, has been sidelined for the rest of the summer, according to an official statement by the ECB.
The statement revealed, “Recent scans exposed a recurrence of a stress fracture in his right elbow. To aid in his recovery, Archer will now receive dedicated attention from the England and Sussex medical teams, who will diligently manage his injury.”
England’s Schedule Begins with Ireland Test, Ashes Series Awaits :
England’s schedule kicks off with a four-day Test against Ireland, commencing on June 1 at the prestigious Lord’s cricket ground. This encounter will serve as a prelude to the highly anticipated five-match Ashes series against Australia, which is slated to begin later in the month.
Bairstow Returns Strong, Foakes Misses Out :
In a positive turn of events for England, wicketkeeper-batter Jonny Bairstow from Yorkshire has successfully recovered from a left leg fracture and ankle dislocation sustained during a golf outing. He makes a triumphant return to the squad, marking his comeback since last August. Consequently, this means that Ben Foakes misses out on the opportunity.
Woakes and Wood Make Comebacks to the Squad :
Meanwhile, Warwickshire seamer Chris Woakes has earned his place back in the squad, showcasing his skills after a hiatus. Additionally, Durham’s fast bowler Mark Wood rejoins the team after taking a break from the New Zealand tour.
Ollie Pope Appointed as England’s Vice-Captain :
As a testament to his exceptional talent and contribution to the team, Surrey batsman Ollie Pope has been officially appointed as England’s vice-captain with immediate effect.
Archer’s Frustration and Foakes’ Omission :
Rob Key, the managing director for England men’s cricket at ECB, expressed sympathy for Archer, stating, “It has been a frustrating and upsetting period for Jofra Archer. Despite showing promising progress, a recurrence of the elbow injury has dealt a setback, which kept him out for an extended period previously. We extend our best wishes for his recovery.”
Key also acknowledged the challenging decision to exclude Ben Foakes from the squad, remarking, “It was a seriously tough decision to leave Foakes out. His commendable performances for England over the past year have been outstanding. However, Jonny Bairstow, one of the world’s finest players, epitomized our team ethos with his exceptional performances last summer.”
(Islamabad51-Newsdesk)
