Jofra Archer is making positive strides in his recovery and is on track to be fit for England’s 50-over World Cup defense in October, according to Sussex head coach Paul Farbrace. The talented fast bowler burst onto the scene four years ago, playing a crucial role in England’s victorious campaign on home soil. However, injuries have plagued Archer since then, requiring multiple surgeries on his elbow and sidelining him with a stress fracture in his back.
But now, Archer is gradually regaining his fitness. He featured in England’s recent limited-overs tours to South Africa and Bangladesh, and although his spell with the Mumbai Indians in the IPL was cut short, he is determined to make a comeback. Unfortunately, he was ruled out of this year’s Ashes series due to another stress fracture in his right elbow. Despite this setback, Farbrace remains positive about Archer’s progress and believes he is on course to make the England squad for the World Cup in India.
On a different note, Ben Stokes, who was instrumental in England’s World Cup triumph in 2019, has reiterated his retirement from one-day international cricket. Stokes intends to use the time between the conclusion of the Ashes and England’s Test tour of India in January to address his chronic knee problem. Given the demands of the international calendar, he made the decision to step away from ODIs last year, and it appears he won’t be available for the World Cup later this year.
Stokes expressed his desire to undergo treatment for his knee during the six-month break between the Ashes and the India series. He hopes that this period will allow him to find a solution to the issue that has restricted his bowling ability in recent times. However, his absence from the World Cup could be a significant blow for England as he was named the Player of the Match in the thrilling final against New Zealand in 2019.
As Archer continues his recovery journey and Stokes focuses on resolving his knee problem, England will need to assess how to utilize their talents effectively in the future. Farbrace emphasizes the importance of getting the best out of Archer in the coming years, particularly with an eye on the next Ashes series.
While Archer’s progress brings hope for England’s World Cup defense, Stokes’ absence poses a challenge. Nonetheless, the team remains optimistic about their chances as they continue to build a formidable squad. Archer’s return to full fitness would undoubtedly bolster England’s bowling attack, while Stokes’ potential comeback from injury could provide them with a much-needed all-rounder. As the World Cup approaches, England will be working hard to ensure they have a competitive team ready to defend their title in India later this year.
