Archer had played just nine matches for England over the past three years before this World Cup
England captain Jos Buttler says Jofra Archer has "exceeded my expectations" on his injury comeback at the T20 World Cup.
The fast bowler, 29, who returned after more than a year out with an elbow injury last month, has taken five wickets in the tournament.
He took 1-15 as England overcame the rain and Namibia on Saturday to put themselves in position to progress to the Super 8 stage before their qualification was confirmed by Australia's dramatic win 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," said Buttler.
"I’m just delighted to see him back in an England shirt playing on the big stage."
Archer made his first England appearance since March 2023 last month after recovering from a long-standing elbow injury – an issue which, along with a back stress fracture, has kept him out of action for much of the past three years.
At the World Cup he has taken a wicket in each completed match and has the best economy rate of any England bowler to have played in all of their matches.
"He’s been fantastic and is an amazing guy to have in the team to throw the ball to," said Buttler.
"He’s exceeded certainly my expectations for where he would be at. He was probably expecting that of himself."
Ashes pain forgiven? England rescued by old foe
Injuries made me 'feel like a burden' – Archer
England in T20 World Cup Super 8s – schedule & how to follow
England's win in Antigua left them knowing they would progress as long as Australia beat Scotland.
Scotland played superbly but Australia, who had already secured their place in the Super 8s, chased down 181 with two balls to spare.
It means England progress to a group with the United States, South Africa and co-hosts West Indies, who they play in their next match at 01:30 BST on Thursday.
"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," said Buttler.
As the rain fell in Antigua, England were 46 minutes away from the match being abandoned – a result that would have knocked them out regardless of how Scotland fared.
Buttler said his side "reacted really well" to the situation and praised the calming influence of former West Indies all-rounder Kieron Pollard, who is part of the England coaching staff for the tournament.
"He’s been around and seen it all," Butter said of the two-time World Cup winner.
"He has that sort of laid-back attitude of 'this is just what happens, we can deal with it when it comes'."
England travelled to St Lucia on Sunday but are waiting for a clearer picture on the fitness of Liam Livingstone, who injured his side while batting against Namibia.
Get cricket news sent straight to your phone
Euro 2024 latest: England training after Serbia win and Scotland's Hanley speaking to media
'Why Kane is not England's playmaker any more'
Bellingham – the England hero who 'writes his own scripts'
Let the mind games begin
The US version of the hit reality game of trust and treachery is back, hosted by Alan Cumming
'I don't think I was mentally present at that moment'
One of the survivors of Norway's biggest industrial disaster recalls the fateful day in 1980
A fraudster whose luxury lifestyle ended in prison
A notorious credit card scammer describes how his crime spiralled into darkness and danger
What would Clive Myrie take to a desert island?
After his Caribbean Adventure, the well-known broadcaster is Lauren Laverne's latest castaway
Bellingham – the England hero who 'writes his own scripts'
'Why Kane is not England's playmaker any more'

'Solid, not spectacular' – five key England talking points

'Different story' as Eriksen enjoys 'dream' Euros return
'Retiring at Wimbledon or Olympics would be fitting'

'A very, very special player' – Yamal, 16, makes Euros history


Ashes pain forgiven? England rescued by old foe
Clarke launches charm offensive as he addresses Scots' critics

Everything you need to know about Euro 2024
'Iceman', 'The Robot', 'The New Modric' – 24 new players to watch at Euro 2024
What next for Ten Hag – transfers, revised role, is he still at risk?
Who will win Euro 2024? BBC pundits make their tournament predictions
From water carrier to serial winner – Deschamps seeks more history
© 2024 BBC. The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites. Read about our approach to external linking.

source

Post Views: 24