ENG vs WI, 2nd Test: Major Blow To Hosts As Jofra Archer Excluded From Old Trafford Test Due To Bio Secure Protocols Breach

"It deeply pains me to be missing the Test match, especially with the series poised. I feel like I have let both teams down, and again I am sorry," said Archer

Jofra Archer

In a major blow to England's hope just ahead of their second Test against the West Indies, tearaway speedster Jofra Archer will not be part of the Playing XI at the Old Trafford Test following a breach of the teams bio-secure protocols. Archer will now begin a 5-day isolation period and will undergo two COVID-19 tests in this period, which have to test negative before his self-isolation period is lifted, England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) said in an official statement. "I am extremely sorry for what I have done," said Archer. "I have put, not only myself, but the whole team and management in danger. I fully accept the consequences of my actions, and I want to sincerely apologise to everyone in the bio-secure bubble. "It deeply pains me to be missing the Test match, especially with the series poised. I feel like I have let both teams down, and again I am sorry," he added. The West Indies team have been made aware of this development and are satisfied with the measures that have been imposed, informed the ECB. England are 0-1 down in the series following their four-wicket defeat in the opening Test at the Ageas Bowl.