England Exercise Caution Over Jofra Archer's Workload Ahead of ODI Series
Author: Vishnu Reddy
Updated At:
England is maintaining a careful approach to managing Jofra Archer’s workload ahead of their five-match ODI series against Australia. After the fast bowler delivered just 3.3 overs during the rain-affected T20I series, interim coach Marcus Trescothick emphasized the importance of a structured plan for Archer’s fitness and workload management.
"We know what we're doing with him, and where we're going. He's comfortable," said Trescothick, highlighting the team’s cautious approach to easing Archer back into regular play following his lengthy injury layoffs due to back and elbow issues.
This year, Archer has been gradually reintegrated into international cricket, featuring in two T20Is against Pakistan in May and playing a key role in all of England's matches at the T20 World Cup in June. However, he was carefully managed during domestic competitions, including the Hundred, where he was twice rested, much to the frustration of his Southern Brave captain, James Vince.
Since the Hundred ended, Archer has only played two matches: one for Sussex in the T20 Blast quarter-final and one for England during their recent defeat at the Utilita Bowl. Despite showing flashes of his lethal bowling ability, including clean-bowling Sean Abbott and Xavier Bartlett in consecutive deliveries, Archer’s participation in the ODI series will continue to be monitored.
Archer Returns to ODI Cricket After 18 Months
Archer’s inclusion in England’s 15-man squad for the ODI series, which kicks off in Nottingham, is a significant step. However, it’s likely he may sit out one or two of the games. Archer, who hasn’t played a 50-over match in 18 months, is still eyeing a return to red-ball cricket, though his last first-class game dates back to May 2021.
England's white-ball captain, Jos Buttler, reinforced the need for careful management. "Jofra will have to be managed throughout the series. There's a jump in intensity from T20 to ODI cricket," Buttler said. "And of course, as an England fan, we hope to see him push those loads up to return to the Test arena as well."
In addition to his responsibilities for Archer’s management, Trescothick will remain heavily involved with England’s cricket program through the winter tours. He will serve as an assistant coach for the Test series in Pakistan and New Zealand, and also step in for Brendon McCullum during the white-ball tour of the Caribbean in November.
With the return of Archer in the ODI setup the betting odds offered by the cricket betting apps will be intriguing as England will head into the ODI series as favourites.
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