Jofra Archer has addressed social media criticism regarding his injury-plagued career, stating that he will do everything in his power to stay on the field and, if that proves insufficient, he would consider retirement. These remarks were made in a series of tweets that have since been deleted.
A social media user criticised Archer, labelling him a "talented bowler" who is "never available, therefore a waste." Archer fired back, questioning the user’s understanding of the toll injuries and surgeries take on an athlete’s body. He defended himself, stating that his talent has led to injuries, and he is doing all he can to remain active in the sport. Archer remarked that if his efforts were not enough, he would simply retire.
The online exchange occurred on the fifth anniversary of Archer’s memorable Test debut against Australia at Lord’s, where his fierce spell of fast bowling forced Steve Smith, typically unshakable, to retire hurt after being struck on the head.
Archer also responded to another user who described his record of 13 Test caps over five years as a "waste" by asking them, "how much did you play?" Shortly after, Archer deleted the tweets involved in the conversation.
Since his sensational entrance onto the international cricket stage during the 2019 World Cup and the subsequent Ashes series, Archer’s career has been marred by injuries, including stress fractures in his elbow and back, leading to multiple surgeries. Despite these challenges, his recent performances have shown improvement. He was England’s standout player at the T20 World Cup in the Caribbean in June and has been performing well for Southern Brave in The Hundred. Archer is set to play for England in the upcoming white-ball series against Australia next month and is being carefully reintroduced to Test cricket, which he hasn’t played since early 2021.
England is optimistic about having Archer fully fit for the five-match Test series against India next summer, followed by the Ashes series abroad.