Rajasthan Royals assistant coach Trevor Penney said Jofra Archer is not bothered by the sharp criticism amid the ongoing IPL vs England debate. Former England captains Michael Atherton and Michael Vaughan have questioned the ECB’s decision to allow Archer to continue playing in the IPL ahead of England’s first Test against New Zealand.
Atherton talked about the long-standing tension between franchise leagues and international cricket, urging caution with Archer as he returns from a prolonged injury layoff. Vaughan was more direct, arguing that England’s central contract system loses value if players are allowed to prioritise IPL commitments over Test preparation.
Speaking before RR’s clash against Mumbai Indians on Sunday, Penney said Archer remains unfazed, adding that he is focused on cricket, rarely discusses the issue, and continues his routine without being affected by external criticism or speculation.
“I’ve read some of those articles. It’s quite weird because it’s a big tournament. Everybody knows IPL is the thing to come to as well. So, if he misses one game for England, then so be it. I think that’s how he’s thinking,” Penney said in the pre-match press conference.
“It doesn’t bother him, I don’t think. Maybe he’d be a bit annoyed, but I can’t answer for him on that. He’s just getting on as normal. He’s hardly even mentioned it. The guys haven’t even spoken about it. So, it is what it is,” Penney said.
