Jofra Archer, the England fast bowler, has been recovering well and is expected to return to the Mumbai Indians XI soon, according to left-arm pacer Jason Behrendorff. Archer has missed four matches for the Mumbai Indians due to a niggle in his wrist. Behrendorff provided a positive update on Archer’s recovery, stating that he has been training with full steam and is not far away from returning to the field.
Archer made his Mumbai Indians debut earlier in the season against Royal Challengers Bangalore at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium but has been sidelined due to injury ever since. Despite Archer’s absence, Mumbai Indians managed to continue their campaign, with Riley Meredith and Jason Behrendorff stepping up in his place. Arjun Tendulkar has also been utilized with the new ball in their last two matches and he has done reasonably well.
Mumbai Indians bought Archer for Rs 8 crore at the IPL 2022 mega auction, even though they knew that he wouldn’t be available for the last season due to his injury. Archer returned to international cricket earlier this year, and Mumbai Indians are now eagerly waiting for his return to bolster their squad.
Archer plays a vital role for the team, and Behrendorff acknowledged this, saying, “We would definitely love to have Joff back. It’s one of those things, and playing the role is difficult. Because Riley bowls quickly when he enters the game, the transition is a little bit easier. Each of us is playing to our strengths, and we work well together. Thus, we have a strong offense.”
The Mumbai Indians will be playing against Punjab Kings at home on April 22, and Archer’s return will be a much-needed boost for Mumbai Indians.