IPL 2024 Auction - This is the reason why Jofra Archer is not playing IPL 2024
Jofra Archer to Skip IPL 2024: ECB Prioritizes Workload Management
Jofra Archer, the talented English pacer, is set to miss the 2024 IPL season, which raises question with his fans that why Jofra Archer is not playing IPL, the answer to which is the decision from England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), which has taken a proactive approach to oversee his workload ahead of the T20 World Cup next year.
Jofra Archer - Absence Since May 2023
Archer, who last played professional cricket in May 2023, faced an elbow stress fracture recurrence while representing Mumbai Indians in the IPL. Despite a brief stint as a reserve in the T20 World Cup in India, his elbow issues persisted, prompting a limited stay in the country.
Jofra Archer - Exclusion from IPL 2024 Auction
The English speedster is notably absent from the list of over 1000 players, including 34 England players, registered for the IPL auction scheduled for December 19 in Dubai. This decision aligns with Archer’s recent two-year central contract with England, extending from October 2023 to September 2025.
ECB's Supervised Comeback
While England’s cricket management has emphasized collaboration with franchise leagues, the ECB deems it more manageable to guide Archer’s comeback under its supervision. Archer’s previous departure from the IPL for an elbow specialist’s consultation and a subsequent minor operation contributed to the ECB’s decision to exercise more control over his rehabilitation.
T20 World Cup Optimism
The ECB anticipates Archer’s potential inclusion in the squad for the T20 World Cup in June 2024, planning for a carefully monitored recovery. England is optimistic about Archer’s fitness, considering his crucial role in upcoming events, including the Ashes in two years.
Controlled Return in County Cricket
With the English season commencing in April, Archer’s first-team cricket options are limited to the County Championship, as the T20 Blast kicks off on May 30. England’s T20Is against Pakistan from May 22 to 30 provide a potential window for Archer’s return. The fast bowler might also participate in the 2nd XI county T20 competition starting in mid-May to prove his fitness.
Mumbai Indians and MI Cape Town
Mumbai Indians released Archer from his contract last week, considering his ongoing fitness concerns. While retained by MI Cape Town as a ‘wildcard’ player for the SA20, Archer’s participation hinges on his rehabilitation progress. He is set to train with England’s white-ball squads in Barbados but won’t feature in the series against West Indies.
Cautious Approach Post-Injuries
Given Archer’s history of injuries, the ECB opts for a cautious approach, acknowledging the risk of rushing his recovery. The decision aligns with the board’s commitment to ensuring Archer’s sustained fitness rather than jeopardizing his long-term career.
IPL Retentions and Opt-Outs
Eight England players, including Moeen Ali, Jos Buttler, and Sam Curran, were retained by IPL franchises, while Ben Stokes and Joe Root opted out of the upcoming auction.
In navigating Archer’s rehabilitation, the ECB underscores its dedication to the player’s well-being and long-term contribution to English cricket.