Mumbai Indians’ (MI) Jofra Archer has not lived up to expectations as he has played just two matches in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) season. Archer’s absence from several games is due to elbow issues which have been troubling them for a while. Earlier this week, there were reports that Archer flew to Belgium to get elbow surgery done. Archer quashed those reports and slammed the journalist for false reporting. However, few days later, MI head coach Mark Boucher has confirmed the reports saying that Archer did go to Belgium for minor surgery.
"Yes, he was (in Belgium for surgery)," Boucher said. "I believe it was a minor surgery," he told the reporters ahead of the clash against Sanju Samson-led Rajasthan Royals (RR) at Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai.
Boucher did not divulge more details about the procedure as he said, "I have things to look after".
However, Boucher did confirm that Archer is fit and available for selection for the Royals clash.
"We all know what Jofra can do. He's been a fantastic bowler for many years now. So, he adds a different dimension to our attack. Obviously, some good pace. He can bowl with the new ball and he's very good at the death as well. It (death overs) is one area where we've struggled a bit. So, he can hopefully come in and fulfill that role, bowling in those situations," the 46-year-old said.
Earlier this week, Archer lambasted the journalist who put out an article that Archer underwent surgery in Belgium.
"Putting out an article without knowing the facts & without my consent is crazy. Who ever the reporter is shame on you, an already worrying and troubling time for a player and you exploit it for your personal gain, it’s people like you that are the problem," the English pacer had tweeted.
Archer has not made an impact so far. He made his MI debut against Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) on April 2 and remained wicketless. He made his next appearance on April 22. He conceded 42 runs in a high-scoring encounter against Punjab Kings (PBKS) and got the wicket of stand-in captain Sam Curran.
It is going to be a crucial home game for Rohit Sharma-led side who are placed ninth on the points table with three wins from seven games.
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