England fast bowler Jofra Archer has made a surprise return to the IPL 2025 mega auction list. Days after his name was missing from the shortlisted players, the IPL management confirmed his inclusion to franchises. The BCCI will hold the IPL Mega Auction on November 24-25 in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Archer, who has set his base price at INR 2 crore, is likely to attract significant attention from franchises.
Archer’s Absence Raises Questions
Notably, the 574-player shortlist sent to franchises earlier this month did not include Archer’s name. This omission sparked speculation, especially given his impressive IPL track record and recent return to form. Archer was initially listed alongside countryman Mark Wood in the longlist shared by the IPL.
Reports suggest that discussions between Archer, his representatives, the ECB, and the BCCI led to his eventual inclusion. Hence, the decision ensures Archer remains eligible for future IPL tournaments, adhering to new regulations introduced by the league.
Challenges for England and IPL Franchises
Archer’s participation in the IPL comes with challenges. The ECB has closely managed his workload since his return from a prolonged injury layoff. Archer’s central contract, which runs until September 2024, gives the ECB significant control over his playing commitments.
If Archer plays in the IPL, he will miss the early County Championship games for Sussex. This could impact his preparation for England’s upcoming Test assignments against India and Australia in 2024.
England’s Managing Director, Rob Key, remains optimistic about Archer’s return to Test cricket. “Everything is going exactly to plan for Jofra,” Key recently stated.
A Star Performer in the IPL
Jofra Archer’s IPL career has been nothing short of stellar. He was named MVP in the 2020 season after taking 20 wickets for Rajasthan Royals. In total, Archer has claimed 48 wickets in 40 IPL matches.
At the 2022 mega auction, Mumbai Indians secured Archer for INR 8 crore despite knowing he would miss the season due to injury. Archer played five matches for MI in 2023, but another elbow issue cut his season short.
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