Massive Blow to Rajasthan Royals! Jofra Archer ruled out of IPL 2020

Last season wasn’t so good for Rajasthan Royals in the Indian Premier League as they finished seventh in the league stages. For the 2020 IPL, the franchise had better aspirations after the auction which presumably went good for them. But, amidst the unfortunate turn of events, Rajasthan Royals will not have the services of their English fast-bowling recruit, Jofra Archer.

Stress fracture rules Jofra Archer out of the IPL 2020

The 24-year old Jofra Archer had suffered an injury during the Test series between South Africa and England. Initially, he was ruled out for the limited-overs leg of the South African tour. But now, further scans on his injury has revealed it to be a bit more serious. In a statement released by England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), it was confirmed that his injury was actually a low-grade stress fracture on the right below. The statement read, “Jofra Archer has been ruled out of England’s Test tour of Sri Lanka and IPL 2020.

Get well soon, @JofraArcher ?
Wishing you a speedy recovery! ?

— England Cricket (@englandcricket) February 6, 2020

The statement further mentioned that Archer will now start an injury rehabilitation programme with the medical team of ECB. The board also informed that the plan is to get Jofra Archer ready for the international cricket summer in the United Kingdom which will commence in June. England is scheduled to play three Tests against the West Indies.

Rajasthan Royals yet to announce a replacement

Jofra Archer unavailability would cost Rajasthan Royals big time as the young fast bowler has been the leader of their bowling group. In 21 IPL matches, he has picked up 26 wickets for the Royals in the past two seasons and he was expected to play a crucial role for them in this season as well. Royals have Archer’s English teammate Tom Curran and West Indian quick Oshane Thomas, but it will be interesting to see who is called as a replacement.