Jofra Archer’s Return Delayed as First T20I Against Pakistan Washed Out

Jofra Archer’s much-anticipated return to the England international scene was met with disappointment as the first T20I against Pakistan at Headingley was washed out due to rain. This setback leaves Archer and the England team with three matches to play before their T20 World Cup defence commences on June 4.

Archer, who has been sidelined from international cricket since March 2023 due to a stress fracture in his back, was expected to make his comeback in this series as he gears up for the World Cup. However, with the first match abandoned, the focus now shifts to the upcoming games against Pakistan.

England and Pakistan are set to face off in the second T20I at Edgbaston on Saturday, May 25, followed by matches at Sophia Gardens (May 28) and The Kia Oval (May 30). Both teams are using this series as vital preparation for the upcoming T20 World Cup, with England aiming to defend their title won two years ago.

While Pakistan comes off a 2-1 victory over Ireland in their recent T20I series, England is looking to bounce back from a 3-2 defeat in the Caribbean. The England players cut short their Indian Premier League stints to participate in this series and focus on their World Cup preparations.

Former England captains Eoin Morgan and Stuart Broad weighed in on Archer’s return, emphasizing the importance of game time for the fast bowler ahead of the World Cup. Morgan highlighted the need for clarity and preparation, while Broad stressed the significance of match intensity to sharpen Archer’s skills.

As England navigates through the rest of the series against Pakistan, the team’s approach will be crucial in determining their readiness for the World Cup. With a deep pool of talent, England must strategically utilize their players to maximize their strengths and secure valuable game time before the tournament.

Fans can catch the action live on Sky Sports Cricket as England takes on Pakistan in the T20I series and gears up for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in the Caribbean and the USA. The excitement continues to build as Archer’s return adds another layer of anticipation to England’s campaign.