Jofra Archer trains with England ahead of World Cup. Will 2019 hero travel as reserve?

England fast bowler, Jofra Archer, has faced a tumultuous cricketing journey, marred by persistent injuries. Archer's absence from the entire home summer season due to a stress fracture in his right elbow cast doubts on his return to England team. 

3 things you should know

• Jofra Archer bowled the Super Over during the 2019 World Cup final
• England beat New Zealand on boundary-count to win their maiden title 
• England will take on New Zealand in their 2023 World Cup opener

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Jofra Archer to travel for World Cup in India 

Despite being left out of England's initial 15-man squad for the 2023 World Cup, there is still hope for Archer as he vies for a place among the three reserves.

In a recent development, Archer was seen training with the England squad, rekindling optimism that he may make it to the World Cup as a backup fast bowler. England face a critical deadline, with the finalisation of their World Cup squad scheduled for September 28, just ahead of their first match against New Zealand on October 5.

Jofra Archer bowling in the nets at The Oval 👀 pic.twitter.com/1vDu6Lh092

— Sky Sports Cricket (@SkyCricket) September 12, 2023

Archer etched his name in cricket history during the thrilling 2019 World Cup final against New Zealand, when he bowled the decisive super over that led England to their first-ever World Cup triumph. However, his career has been riddled with injuries since then. Although he made a comeback earlier this year during England's limited-overs tours of South Africa and Bangladesh, a fresh elbow injury prevented him from participating in the Ashes series.

Archer's presence at The Oval, where he was spotted bowling in the nets before the third ODI against New Zealand, has sparked discussions about his potential role in the World Cup. 

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Twist in Archer's fate 

England selector Luke Wright emphasised the need for caution in managing Archer's fitness, acknowledging the challenges posed by his recurrent injuries. The best-case scenario, according to Wright, is for Archer to travel to India as a reserve and potentially contribute in the latter stages of the tournament.

"There has got to be a duty of care with Jof," said Wright as quoted by BBC. "We know how desperate we all are to have him, but we've also got to get it right for him. He's been very unfortunate with these injuries, so we do have to get it right."

Archer's journey with England began in 2019 when he qualified to play for the country, displacing David Willey from the World Cup squad. In a twist of fate, Willey has now secured his place in the 2023 World Cup squad and expressed optimism about Archer's condition, stating that he appears to be in good form. 

"I don't know where he's at fitness wise but he's bowling good wheels out there today," said Willey. "Everyone knows how good is he is, what he's capable of and how he can impact games. So to have him close or not far away from being fit is obviously fantastic news."