ENG vs WI: Archer dropped from 2nd Test after beach of protocol

England pacer Jofra Archer has been excluded from the 2nd Test against West Indies after he was found to have violated England’s biosecure protocols. The England and Wales Cricket Board released an official statement just hours before the start of the Test at Old Trafford on Thursday (July 16).

Archer is now set to undergo five days of self-isolation, during which he will have to take two Covid-19 tests. These tests will have to return negative results before the isolation period ends. Officials have informed the West Indies team, who seem to be satisfied with the measures imposed.

“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.”

England are trailing 0-1 in the 3-match Test series against the West Indies. With Archer out of the equation and James Anderson rested, the focus will shift on veteran Stuart Broad who missed the 1st Test. The return of regular skipper Joe Root should also bolster their batting department.