England fast bowler Jofra Archer is all set to miss the second Test against West Indies at Old Trafford in Manchester, following a breach of the team’s biosecurity protocols.
Archer was part of the 13 man squad for the second Test but the England Cricket Board (ECB) released a statement this morning saying that he would be excluded out of the team and put on self-isolation.
An ECB official confirmed that Archer breached protocols while travelling between Ageas Bowl to Old Trafford.
“The West Indies team have been made aware and are satisfied with the measures that have been imposed,” read an ECB statement.
Although, Archer remained apologetic about his action of endangering his teammates by not following biosecurity protocols.
“I am extremely sorry for what I have done. I have put not only myself, but the whole team and management in danger. I fully accept the consequences of my actions, and I want to sincerely apologise to everyone in the bio-secure bubble,” said Archer.
“It deeply pains me to be missing the Test match, especially with the series poised. I feel like I have let both teams down, and again I am sorry, “he added.
In the first Test at Southampton, Archer finished wicketless in the first innings but came back strongly in the second innings to pick up three West Indies wickets.
Moreover, England’s selection dilemma has been increased further with this significant blow to Archer, given the fact that both James Anderson and Mark Wood were scheduled to be rested for the second Test.
Thus, it will be a toss-up between Sam Curran, Ollie Robinson and Chris Woakes with Stuart Broad coming back in for the game. West Indies currently leads the three-match Test series by 1-0 margin.
