Stokes says Archer committed to Eng with pacer unavailable after IPL involvement

London, June 3: England cricket captain Ben Stokes leapt to the defense of Jofra Archer on Wednesday, insisting the fast bowler is “committed” to the national team despite his absence for the start of the test series against New Zealand.
Archer will miss the first Test at Lord’s starting Thursday because he has been playing in the IPL with Rajasthan Royals, who reached the playoffs and were beaten by Gujarat Titans last week.
On Tuesday, England coach Brendon McCullum also cast doubt on Archer’s availability for the second Test, which starts June 17, saying he is having “a little bit of a break at the moment” and needs to be assessed.
Archer has faced criticism from some pundits and former players for not prioritising England, with whom he has a central contract. (AP)