England Would be Silly If They Don't Pick Jofra Archer - Devon Malcolm

Former England fast bowler Devon Malcolm believes the English side would be silly if they don’t pick the talented all-rounder Jofra Archer. The lanky all-rounder has impressed in his young career. In fact, he would be eligible to play for England before the ICC World Cup 2019, as per the new rules of England and Wales Cricket Board residency.

Meanwhile, Jofra Archer has impressed with his skills while playing for Sussex. The 23-year prodigy all-rounder showed great form while playing for Hobart Hurricanes in the Big Bash League. Archer also ticked the right boxes in his maiden stint for Rajasthan Royals in the Indian Premier League.

Archer has got sheer pace under his belt.

Marshall believes Archer could be instrumental in England World Cup’s triumph as he is an all-around performer in all the three departments of the game.

“Archer is a superb young player, a good bowler, very quick, an athletic fielder and he can bat as well so he would give the England captain quite a lot more to work with,” Malcolm told Reuters at an event in Luton to promote Wicketz, a community cricket programme run by the Lord’s Taverners.

“Morgan will be wary of making changes based on Archer’s potential. But he’s a fantastic young cricketer and it would be silly not to put him in the squad.”

Meanwhile, Jofra Archer will definitely strengthen England’s team as he can clock 90 mph on a consistent level. On the other hand, England is the number one ODI side in the world and they are considered as the favourites for the World Cup.

Tom Curran and David Willey have also put their names in contention. However, Malcolm believes these two all-rounders will need to raise their game to challenge Jofra Archer.

“These guys play together and have won nine ODI series on the trot so Eoin Morgan must decide how quickly he would fit in,” said Jamaica-born Malcolm

“But with Archer waiting in the wings they will have to lift their game a bit more because they will want to be starting in the World Cup in May.”

In fact, there is no iota of doubt Jofra Archer will add strength to the English side. He has got sheer pace under his belt which can make all the difference. However, he hasn’t got International experience at the topmost stage. Archer had represented the West Indies Under-19 side.

England is currently locking horns with the Windies in five-match ODI series in the Carribean.