Jofra Archer won't be playing in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024, as the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) wants to manage his workload ahead of the T20 World Cup. Archer, who last played in May 2023 due to an elbow injury in the IPL, isn't part of the 1000+ players, including 34 English players, in the IPL auction.
The ECB, with Archer on a two-year contract until September 2025, advised him against entering the auction.
They are prioritising Archer's recovery, and believe that he should stay in the UK under their supervision rather than playing in the IPL. Despite emphasising collaboration with franchise leagues, the ECB thinks managing Archer's return is easier if he's in the UK during April and May, rather than in India with an IPL team.
Earlier this year, Archer left the IPL for Belgium to consult with an elbow specialist and underwent minor surgery. After playing four more games, he returned home with a stress fracture recurrence. The ECB aims to closely oversee Archer's rehabilitation this time.
The hope is for Archer to join England's squad for the T20 World Cup 2024 in June, and preparations are underway with a focus on his fitness. The ECB is optimistic about his return, considering the significant contributions he can make to England's teams, including the upcoming Ashes in two years.
Managing Archer's workload and ensuring his fitness for key events is a priority for the ECB, aligning with their commitment to supporting players in their recovery and international commitments. Archer's absence from the IPL auction signals the ECB's strategic approach to safeguarding the player's well-being and long-term contributions to English cricket.
Rob Key, the managing director of England men's cricket, said, "We take that bet with him that we want him back fit and able to play for England, because of the upside. "You start looking at things like the Ashes in two years, the T20 World Cup… Jofra adds so much to that."
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