Elbow Discomfort Forces Archer’s Return Home from IPL
After experiencing elbow discomfort while playing for Mumbai Indians in the IPL 2023, Jofra Archer has flown back home. This setback comes after he underwent a minor surgery earlier in the season. Archer’s time with the franchise has been filled with ups and downs, as we explore his journey.
Surprise Inclusion in IPL Mega-Auction
On February 1, 2022, Jofra Archer’s name surprisingly appeared on the longlist for the IPL mega-auction, despite being expected to miss IPL 2022 due to an elbow injury. Hemang Amin, the IPL’s COO, informed franchises that Archer was registered by the ECB for potential participation in 2023 and 2024, as he was unlikely to play in IPL 2022 due to his injury.
Signed by Mumbai Indians Amidst Bidding War
Despite his unavailability, Jofra Archer became the center of a bidding war between his previous franchise, Rajasthan Royals, Sunrisers Hyderabad, and Mumbai Indians during the auction on February 13, 2022. Eventually, Mumbai secured his services for INR 8 crore (£800,000 approx). Akash Ambani, the franchise’s owner, expressed confidence in Archer’s potential partnership with Jasprit Bumrah.
Back Stress Fracture Halts Archer’s Return
On May 19, 2022, Archer was diagnosed with a lower-back stress fracture, dashing his hopes of returning for Sussex in the T20 Blast and ruling him out of the English summer. The ECB released a statement, stating that no timeframe had been set for his return.
England Lions Return and Cape Town Debut
On November 23, 2022, Jofra Archer made his return to bowling in England’s match kit for the England Lions. Playing against the full Test squad in a warm-up match in Abu Dhabi, he struck Zak Crawley on the helmet with a sharp bouncer, marking a significant moment in his journey.
Archer continued his comeback as a wildcard for MI Cape Town, Mumbai Indians’ franchise in the inaugural SA20. He made a notable impact, taking 10 wickets in six matches.
Full International Comeback and Bangladesh Tour
On January 10, 2023, Jofra Archer made his full international comeback for England, playing in the first ODI in South Africa and taking 1 for 81. Just five days later, he delivered an exceptional performance, claiming 6 for 40 in a consolation win as England lost the series 2-1.
Archer’s journey continued with England’s white-ball tour to Bangladesh. He featured in five international matches, taking a total of nine wickets across the ODI and T20I formats.
Mumbai Debut in IPL 2023
On April 2, 2023, Jofra Archer made his long-awaited debut for Mumbai Indians in IPL 2023. However, the match ended in a heavy defeat to Royal Challengers Bangalore at the Chinnaswamy Stadium. Archer had a challenging outing, conceding 33 runs in his four overs and missing a difficult caught-and-bowled chance offered by Virat Kohli off his first ball.
Discomfort Delays Debut at Mumbai’s Home Game
On April 8, 2023, Jofra Archer, the dynamic cricketer from Mumbai, experienced discomfort in his right elbow on his debut, causing him to miss the highly anticipated home game against the Chennai Super Kings. Mark Boucher, the team’s head coach, referred to the issue as “a little niggle” and expressed confidence in the team’s medical staff to nurse Archer back to full fitness soon.
Archer’s Return and First Wicket Against Punjab Kings
Following a four-match absence, Jofra Archer made his triumphant return to the Mumbai squad. On April 22, 2023, in a match against the Punjab Kings at the Wankhede stadium, Archer claimed his first wicket for the team, dismissing Sam Curran with an impressive caught and bowled effort. Despite the team’s defeat, Archer’s performance showcased his undeniable skill and determination.
Mysterious Belgium Trip Unveiled
Reports emerged on April 25, 2023, revealing that Archer had traveled to Belgium during his time off to consult with Roger van Riet, an elbow specialist, for a “minor procedure.” The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) confirmed Archer’s visit but refrained from commenting on the specifics of the procedure. In response, Archer expressed his frustration on Twitter, criticizing the release of information without his consent or accurate facts.
Archer’s Ambitions Extend to All Formats
In an interview with ESPNcricinfo on April 27, 2023, Jofra Archer affirmed his desire to return to Test cricket, emphasizing his passion for playing red-ball cricket. He dismissed any notion of abandoning any cricket format, displaying his commitment to continuing his career across all formats.
Boucher’s Confirmation of Surgery
During a pre-match press conference on April 29, 2023, Mark Boucher confirmed Archer’s trip to Belgium and acknowledged that he underwent minor surgery. Additionally, it was revealed that Chris Jordan, Archer’s close friend and England teammate, had been training with the Mumbai franchise.
IPL Departure for Rehabilitation
On May 9, 2023, Mumbai announced that Archer would be replaced by Chris Jordan for the remaining matches of the IPL 2023. Archer’s consecutive wicketless appearances against the Punjab Kings and Chennai Super Kings prompted the decision. The ECB confirmed that Archer had undergone right elbow surgery and clarified that his return to the UK was necessary for rest and rehabilitation, providing him with the best chance for a complete recovery.
Jofra Archer’s journey in the IPL 2023 has been marked by setbacks and glimpses of his immense talent. From missing Mumbai’s home game to undergoing a mysterious procedure in Belgium, Archer’s path to recovery has been challenging. Nevertheless, his determination to excel in all cricket formats remains unwavering. As he departs from the IPL to focus on rehabilitation, cricket fans eagerly await his return to the field, where he will continue to showcase his skills and contribute to the game he loves.
