Cricket fans in Bengaluru might be witnessing a familiar face this week, but it’s not quite what they might expect. English fast bowler Jofra Archer, a former Mumbai Indians player, has arrived in the city, but not to participate in the upcoming IPL 2024 season.
Jofra Archer in Bengaluru
Archer, currently out of the IPL 2024 due to an ongoing recovery from an elbow injury, is in Bengaluru as part of his county side Sussex’s pre-season training camp.
Several county teams, including the Lancashire men’s and women’s teams, are utilizing Bengaluru’s warm weather for off-season training sessions and practice matches.
Focus on T20 World Cup Return
The 28-year-old pacer is under close monitoring by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) as he works his way back to full fitness. Having undergone surgery a year ago, Archer made his return to competitive cricket earlier this month in a second-division County Championship match. His primary objective is to be in peak condition for the upcoming T20 World Cup later this year.
County Teams Gear Up for Season
The Lancashire men, led by Keaton Jennings, commenced training at the KSCA Alur facility on Tuesday. Sussex, featuring Archer as their star attraction, will begin their training sessions on Wednesday. Both teams will participate in practice matches against Karnataka select sides during their 10-day stay in Bengaluru. These matches will include T20 encounters and red-ball games, providing valuable preparation for the upcoming county season.
While Jofra Archer’s presence in Bengaluru might have sparked speculation about an IPL return, his focus remains firmly set on regaining full fitness and potentially representing England at the T20 World Cup. Cricket fans in the city can still enjoy watching him train and potentially play in practice matches alongside other talented county cricketers.
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