Breach of bio-secure protocols leads to Archer’s exclusion for 2nd Test

Manchester, July 16 (IANS) England pacer Jofra Archer has been excluded from the second Test of the ongoing three-match series against the West Indies starting Thursday at the Old Trafford following a breach of the teams bio-secure protocols.

Archer will now commence five days of isolation and will undergo two COVID-19 tests in this period, which have to test negative before his self-isolation period is lifted, England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) said in an official statement.

“I am extremely sorry for what I have done,” said Archer.

“I have put, not only myself, but the whole team and management in danger. I fully accept the consequences of my actions, and I want to sincerely apologise to everyone in the bio-secure bubble.

“It deeply pains me to be missing the Test match, especially with the series poised. I feel like I have let both teams down, and again I am sorry,” he added.

The West Indies team have been made aware and are satisfied with the measures that have been imposed, informed the ECB.

England are 0-1 down in the series following their four-wicket defeat in the opening Test at the Ageas Bowl.

–IANS

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