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"Jesus! Time To Come Off Now": Jofra Archer On Red-Ball Readiness After County Stint

Soumyajit Dutta

Jofra Archer opens up [Source: @amor12/X.com]Jofra Archer opens up [Source: @amor12/X.com]

Jofra Archer has highlighted the mental challenge of readjusting to four-day cricket after a four-year absence as more demanding than the physical exertion. Despite the psychological test on an unresponsive pitch, his body showed no adverse reaction during Sussex's County Championship match. 

Archer expressed confidence in his physical readiness for a potential Test recall later this summer, having successfully completed a full day's bowling for the first time since May 2021.

Jofra Archer Confident Of Strong Comeback 

Speaking after the second day's play in County cricket, Archer admitted the experience had been "mentally tough" on a surface that offered very little lateral movement for the bowlers. His relief at finishing the day was palpable. 

"I'm glad to just finish a day of four-day cricket. Last time I played [against Kent at Hove in May 2021], I just made it to tea, so I'm glad to go all the way today," Archer said as quoted by ESPNcricinfo.

For the unaware, Archer's return was marked by a significant wicket for Sussex, his first in first-class cricket for 1,501 days, but the primary battle was internal. The lack of assistance from the surface made the day feel particularly grueling mentally, contrasting sharply with past long stints in the field when the ball was moving.

"When the scoreboard got to 50 overs, I was, like, 'Jesus, time to come off now! Today could have been the longest day I've ever had, and not because it's red-ball cricket. I've been in the field for two-and-a-half days before, and it still didn't feel as long as today. When the ball is moving, and you're getting something off the pitch, it feels a bit more exciting," Archer said.

Crucially, his body responded well, "It felt all right today. I've been playing for a year, and bowling for two years, including the build-up, so everything is fine." 

Archer Opens Up On ECB's Role

Archer emphasized there were "no restrictions on this game" from the ECB, understanding the demands of Test cricket.

"Whatever I did, I did. Obviously there can't be a limit if you're looking at a Test match. They were in the field for a day-and-a-half [in the first Test at Headingley]. You can't have restrictions if you're potentially going to go in. You put your body through as much pressure, safely, as possible, to put yourself in the best position," Archer said.

Reflecting on his journey back to first-class cricket, Archer stated. "Back then, I didn't have the choice because I didn't think my body could hold up to it."

Moreover, Jofra Archer admitted that the mental aspect of the game would be challenging in the coming days. However, he remained positive, calling it a new challenge and vowing to keep pushing forward.