IPL 2021: Kumar Sangakkara reveals that Jofra Archer won't be rushed to action

Rajasthan Royals team director Kumar Sangakkara has made it clear that speedster Jofra Archer won’t be rushed back from injury but he is still optimistic of the fact that the Caribbean b0rn fast bowler will play some role or the other during the ongoing edition of the IPL. Archer has been an integral part of the Rajasthan Royals setup and his absence will surely be a big blow for the champions of the inaugural edition. 

The fiery fast bowler underwent surgery last week on his right hand to remove a glass fragment from a tendon. It happened after an attempt to clean his fish tank wasn’t successful. Archer has sustained the injury at home back in January. It must also be noted that the operation was performed while Archer was undergoing treatment for a long-term elbow injury. 

"Not having him at the start is a big blow for us because a lot of our planning is centred around his availability," Sangakkara said in the lead-up to their opening encounter against the Punjab Kings slated to be played later today. 

"We are certainly hoping that he will be available for some part of the IPL but we have contingency plans in place now and no risks will be taken.

"It's very important that Jofra gets fit, not just for the IPL, but importantly for his international career.

"His value to world cricket and to England cricket is part of our decision and we will be guided by the experts in English cricket who look after Jofra."

Archer was snapped up by the Rajasthan Royals for Rs 7.2 crores back in 2018 and have retained him ever since. Archer finished the previous edition of the tournament as the Most Valuable Player of the Season. He bagged 20 wickets and was instrumental in RR winning the matches they did. 

Despite the long term shoulder injury Archer was seen in action in both Tests and the limited-overs series against India and didn’t look his usual self. He was not steaming in and the break might just get him in a good shape going forward. With England slated to host India in a five-match Test series in July-August, the England team management will be hoping that Archer gets fit. He will also be a vital option for England in the T20 World Cup slated to be played in India later this year.