Jofra Archer's surprise game for his old school team in Barbados throws ECB rehab plans off course

The England and Wales Cricket Board's (ECB) effort to oversee Jofra Archer's recovery from a prolonged elbow injury encountered an unexpected hurdle after it emerged that Archer, unbeknownst to the England management, had participated in a game for his former school team in Barbados.

Archer, who has been dealing with a fractured right elbow and a stress fracture in the back, has only played seven white-ball matches for England since March 2021. Despite his limited appearances, he was recently awarded a two-year ECB central contract.

As part of his rehabilitation process, Archer was also withdrawn from the upcoming IPL auction, a decision taken by the ECB to maintain control over the fast bowler's recovery.

However, England's Managing Director Rob Key was taken by surprise during a media briefing about England's Test squad for the India tour upon learning that Archer had played for his alma mater, Foundation, in a Division One match of the Barbados Cricket Association League.

The match against Lords was critical for Foundation, which risked relegation in case of a defeat. Archer's performance was notable, as he claimed four wickets for 18 runs on the first day, contributing significantly to bowling Lords out for 114. He even experimented with left-arm spin for one of his wickets and scored 11 runs in Foundation's innings, which ended at 78 for 8.

When informed about Archer's participation in the match, Key expressed his unawareness and resolved to look into the matter, saying, "I'm not aware of that. I'll find out."

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