England fast bowler Joffra Archer, playing for Rajasthan Royals in IPL 2025, will no longer be able to play ODI series against the West Indies. He suffered a thumb injury while fielding in the match against Kolkata Knight Riders on 4 May. Initially the injury looked modest, but after investigation it was found that their right thumb ligament had damaged. For this reason, he was also out of Rajasthan’s last two matches.

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) issued a statement stating that Archer will be monitored for the next two weeks to set their return timeline. Luke Wood has now been replaced in the ODI team. The ODI series will start from May 29 at Edgbaston ground in Birmingham, the second match will be played on 1 June in Cardiff and the third in London on 3 June.

Archer’s injury has also raised questions on the unofficial Tests on England’s visit to India, which is to start from June 6. If Archer fit and perform well, they can be included in the Test team against India.