London, Report by Ejaz Wasim Bakhri
Former England captain Michael Vaughan has strongly criticized the England and Wales Cricket Board for allowing fast bowler Jofra Archer to continue playing in the Indian Premier League instead of joining England’s squad for the opening Test against New Zealand national cricket team.
Speaking during a television program, Vaughan questioned the ECB’s decision-making and raised concerns over national commitment versus franchise cricket.
Vaughan pointed out that Archer was not included in England’s squad for the first Test because the ECB stated he would remain in India to continue his IPL commitments. He said it was surprising that England’s key Test series was about to begin while Archer stayed back for franchise cricket.
The former skipper suggested there may be an understanding between the ECB and the Board of Control for Cricket in India, which allowed certain players to continue participating in the IPL despite upcoming international duties.
Vaughan also questioned whether a centrally contracted player should be allowed to prioritize franchise cricket over national duty. He emphasized that the ECB had supported Archer for years through central contracts and injury rehabilitation, so representing England should remain the player’s top priority.
While acknowledging the financial and professional benefits of franchise leagues, Vaughan warned that Test cricket should not be pushed behind domestic T20 tournaments. He added that if England wants its players to participate in the IPL, the cricket calendar should be arranged in a way that avoids clashes with important international series.
The first Test between England and New Zealand is scheduled to begin on June 4.
