Archer has exceeded my expectations – Buttler
- Archer’s performance has surpassed expectations, says Jos Buttler. Read more on their cricket journey and achievements in the latest updates.
When it comes to Jofra Archer’s injury recovery at the T20 World Cup, England captain Jos Buttler admits the player “exceeded my expectations.
After missing over a year due to an elbow injury, the 29-year-old fast bowler made his comeback last month and has already claimed five wickets in the competition.
He finished with a score of 1-15 on Saturday as England defeated Namibia and the rain to advance to the Super 8 stage, and their qualification was subsequently guaranteed by Australia’s thrilling victory over Scotland.
“We were in and out looking at the weather, and Jofra was asleep on the bench—he’s in a really good place,” stated Buttler.
“I’m just delighted to see him back in an England shirt playing on the big stage.”
After recovering from an elbow injury that had kept him out of action for the majority of the previous three years due to a back stress fracture, Archer made his first appearance for England since March 2023 last month.
He is the best England bowler to have played in every match of the World Cup, having taken a wicket in every game that has been played.
“He’s been fantastic and is an amazing guy to have on the team to throw the ball to,” stated Buttler.
“He’s really gone above and beyond what I thought he would be. Most likely, he was anticipating that from himself.”
Following their victory in Antigua, England knew they would advance if Australia defeated Scotland.
Australia, who had already guaranteed a spot in the Super 8s, chased down 181 with two balls remaining despite Scotland’s outstanding performance.
This means that England moves on to a group that includes the United States, South Africa, and its co-hosts, the West Indies, whom they will play on Thursday at 01:30 BST.
“It was a nervous watch at times, but thankfully we can now prepare for a big week of crucial matches in St Lucia and Barbados against strong opposition,” stated Buttler.
England was 46 minutes from having the match abandoned as the rain fell in Antigua, a result that would have eliminated them regardless of how Scotland performed.
Buttler commended the soothing impact of former West Indies all-rounder Kieron Pollard, who is a member of the England coaching staff for the event, saying his team “reacted really well” to the situation.
Speaking on behalf of the two-time World Cup victor, Butter remarked, “He’s been around and seen it all.”
“He has that sort of laid-back attitude of ‘this is just what happens, we can deal with it when it comes’.”
England left for St. Lucia on Sunday, but they are still awaiting more information regarding Liam Livingstone’s condition after he hurt his side while batting against Namibia.
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