India vs England: Jofra Archer ruled out of second Test
England pace spearhead Jofra Archer has been ruled out of the second Test against India due to elbow injury. The fast bowler took an injection in his right elbow after experiencing pain in the opening Test, earlier this week. Therefore, he was unable to train on Thursday for the impending Test, starting February 13. Here is more on the same.
His condition should settle down quickly: ECB
The England camp hopes for Archer to recover for the third Test. "The issue is not related to any previous injury and it is hoped the treatment will allow the condition to settle down quickly, allowing the player to return to action in time for the third Test in Ahmedabad," the ECB said in a release on Thursday.
Stuart Broad likely to replace Archer
England will miss the services of Archer, who has the propensity to notch over 150 KPH. The fast bowler snapped up three wickets in the series opener, which England won by 227 runs. Meanwhile, senior bowler Stuart Broad is likely to replace Archer in the second Test. England are already without Jos Buttler, who has returned to the UK for a rest.
Archer acknowledges the win against India
Archer acknowledged that beating India in their own backyard is a remarkable achievement. "Winning by 227 runs against that India team in their own conditions makes it that bit more special," he added. "I've played in tournaments around the world, and had success, but winning a Test is one of those indescribable feelings, especially against a really good team. Nothing compares."
He couldn't celebrate much after England won the first Test
Writing in his column in the Daily Mail, Archer revealed that his celebrations were cut-short by a stomach complaint, before the extent of his elbow problem was known. "I'm not a big beer drinker and I would normally have a spirit to celebrate," Archer wrote. "But I didn't partake because I wasn't feeling well. I had a serious tummy ache."
England lead the four-Test series 1-0
England claimed a crucial 1-0 lead by winning the series opener in Chennai. The victory was led by skipper Joe Root, who slammed his fifth double-ton in Test cricket. Meanwhile, the Indians were unable to bat for long sessions, and thereby succumbed. The Virat Kohli-led India desperately require a win in order to stay alive for ICC WTC qualification race.
