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Jofra Archer for England - (Source: AFP)
In a significant development, England star seamer Jofra Archer will not be available for the first ODI against New Zealand. Notably, the Three Lions will lock horns against the blackcaps for a three-ODI series starting from October 26.
Notably, the Three Lions have decided to rest Archer for the opening match in order to keep him ready for the Ashes. It is a clear signal that England are prioritising the Ashes, which is set to begin from November 21.
Archer to miss 1st ODI for Ashes prep
According to Independent, Archer is yet to arrive in New Zealand and will land in Oceania on Saturday morning alongside fellow express quicks Mark Wood and Josh Tongue. Notably, they are not part of England's squad for New Zealand series, but will prepare for the Ashes.
At present, Jofra Archer has had enough rest, but England are safeguarding the right-arm seamer from future injuries. The last time Jofra was in action was during England's T20I and ODI series against South Africa in September 2025. Thus, it has been more than a month since Archer has featured for the Three Lions.
England and Australia both kickstart Ashes preparations
Notably, England are not the only team who are prioritising Ashes preparations despite featuring in a white-ball series, but Australia are acting on similar plans as well.
Recently, reports hinted that Australia head coach Andrew McDonald has actually left the Australia vs India series midway after the first ODI to hold a meeting with Pat Cummins and Steve Smith to prepare for the Ashes.
The Men in Yellow are already ahead 1-0 in the series, which made the decision easier for McDonald. Further, in his absence, Australia assistant coach will act as the stand-in head coach.
