Jofra Archer's absence from England's Test squad sparks criticism
Sky Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 2, 2026, 5:41 PM
Last updated Jun 2, 2026

Jofra Archer is set to miss the first and possibly the second Test match against New Zealand, called 'absolutely ludicrous' by pundit Simon Doull. Archer has been allowed to continue participating in IPL playoffs rather than joining the England squad. His absence has provoked frustration among critics, including Michael Atherton and head coach Brendon McCullum, who questioned Archer's commitment to Test cricket. England is now considering replacements, with fellow seamer Ollie Robinson returning to the team after more than two years away.
- •Archer misses the first Test after IPL commitments.
- •Simon Doull criticizes Archer's unavailability.
- •Michael Atherton expresses frustration over the situation.
- •Brendon McCullum comments on Archer's assessment for future Tests.
- •Ollie Robinson returns to the Test squad for England.
"Simon Doull has dubbed Jofra Archer's absence from the England Test squad to face New Zealand 'absolutely ludicrous' amid the news that the seamer could miss both the first and second matches.
Sources
External linksOriginal reporting and copyright belong to the linked sources. SportsNewsReport.com aggregates and links — it does not republish full articles.
Related Stories
Last 14 days- IPL•Jun 2, 2026, 5:38 PMENG vs NZ 1st Test: England and New Zealand's predicted starting lineups at the Lord's Test
Cricket•Jun 2, 2026, 5:36 PMUnchanged England opt to bowl in decider; India bring Gaud back
Cricket•Jun 2, 2026, 4:53 PMEngland face India in T20 international series decider LIVE!
ICC T20 World Cup•Jun 2, 2026, 4:45 PMEngland v India: third and deciding women’s T20 cricket international – live- Cricket•Jun 2, 2026, 3:18 PMBashir returns to England team for first Test
- ICC•Jun 2, 2026, 3:02 PMEngland's Archer may not be ready for second Test
