Jofra Archer, the English fast bowler, has reignited speculation about his potential participation in the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024. A recent video showcasing his bowling prowess for Sussex in Bengaluru went viral on social media, sparking discussions about a possible stint with Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB).
Adding fuel to the fire, Archer himself posted a cryptic message on Instagram just a couple of days before the IPL opener between Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and RCB.
Fans are abuzz, wondering if this signifies a last-minute inclusion in a team.
This comes on the heels of Archer’s surprise appearance in a two-day practice match between Karnataka and Sussex in Bengaluru. Despite playing county cricket for Sussex, Archer donned the Karnataka jersey as a substitute, even scalping two wickets.
This display of good form, particularly after nearly a year without competitive cricket, has further excited fans.
Also READ: Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB)’s best playing XI for the IPL 2024
Here are the reactions of RCB fans:
Jofra Archer RCB ahh 😯😲😲😲 twist uhhhh 🥵🥵
— G.O.A.T 🐐 (@goat__tweetz) March 17, 2024
What is Jofra Archer doing with RCB's Jersey!? 🙄
— Sharon Solomon (@BSharan_6) March 17, 2024
Jofra Archer ➡️ RCB
Here we go again !!! pic.twitter.com/GdboC7gsZq— V.S RAJPUT (@virat_rajput01) March 17, 2024
Jofra Archer visited Royal Challengers Bangalore cafe in Bangalore!
Is he going to make late entry in IPL 2024🤔Courtesy: Jofra Archer#RCB #ipl2024 #jofraarcher pic.twitter.com/jrDozLTkRe
— Machaao For Cricket (@MachaaoApp) March 17, 2024
Jofra Archer is coming to RCB ♥️🔥 pic.twitter.com/YwlFMV0A37
— KING VIRAT KOHLI (@UJJWAL_0_27) March 17, 2024
Jofra Archer coming to RCB as replacement nu solitu irundhanga…
Edho rumor nu nenaiche…
Namashurum pola 😳 pic.twitter.com/PH7x9BQxBe
— ℳя. வில்லங்கம் ✇ 🪄 (@Vineethian) March 17, 2024
Welcome the GOAT fast bowler jofra archer in RCB. 😎 pic.twitter.com/MnFLNJdnPv
— MOTU PATLU (@VickyKu95123595) March 17, 2024
Jofra Archer at RCB Bar and Cafe in Bengaluru.
RCB cooking something big 👀 #RCB #IPL2024 #RCBUnbox pic.twitter.com/gnv8KOS1Os
— Ritesh Sharma (@Ritesh_Sharma11) March 17, 2024
Jofra Archer at RCB Bar and Cafe in Bengaluru
RCB cooking something big 👀 pic.twitter.com/nhtjEc4cZd
— Kevin (@imkevin149) March 17, 2024
Archer last played for Mumbai Indians in the IPL
Archer’s last competitive outing was a short-lived stint with Mumbai Indians (MI) in IPL 2023, where he managed just two wickets in five games before succumbing to a recurring elbow injury.
While MI released him ahead of the 2024 auction, no other IPL franchise picked him up. However, his recent activity in India and his apparent fitness have sparked rumours of a potential mid-season replacement or a last-minute addition to a team’s roster.
Also READ: RCB’s Wonder Woman: 10 lesser-known facts about Ellyse Perry
With the IPL season underway, all eyes are on Archer and any official announcements from the franchises that might confirm his much-anticipated return to the world’s biggest T20 league.