Jofra Archer, the right-arm pacer, missed out on four successive games after taking part in Mumbai Indians’ (MI) IPL 2023 opener against Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). The MI head coach, Mark Boucher, cited a “little niggle” as the reason for Archer’s absence. However, according to a report published in The Telegraph, Archer travelled to Belgium for a minor surgery on his troublesome right elbow.
The report stated that the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) confirmed Archer’s visit to his specialist in Belgium. After assessment by the specialist, Archer underwent what sources describe as “a minor procedure” before returning to India. Archer did not appear in MI’s last fixture against Gujarat Titans (GT) on Tuesday, April 25.
On Wednesday (April 26), Archer took to Twitter to slam the report, stating, “Putting out an article without knowing the facts & without my consent is crazy. Whoever the reporter is, shame on you, an already worrying and troubling time for a player, and you exploit it for your personal gain. It’s people like you that are the problem.”
While Archer didn’t appear to be in discomfort while bowling against Punjab Kings (PBKS) on April 22, where he touched 145 kmph at regular intervals; it is unclear if he will be fit to play in MI’s upcoming game against Rajasthan Royals (RR) on Sunday, April 30.
Archer’s participation in the IPL has been affected by his elbow injury, which also caused him to miss the T20 World Cup last year.
Despite his injury concerns, Archer has been a vital asset for MI, having taken three wickets in the first match he played against RCB. His return to action for the PBKS game brought relief to MI’s camp as they were struggling with injuries to several key players, including captain Rohit Sharma. However, it remains to be seen how Archer’s injury affects MI’s campaign this season.
With seven games played, MI are currently in seventh place in the IPL 2023 points table with three wins and fourth losses. They will be hoping for a fit and firing Archer to help them in their quest to reach the playoffs and seal another title.
