Jofra Archer added to IPL 2025 auction list after U-turn on participation

England pacer Jofra Archer has reportedly been added to IPL 2025 auction list. The bowler’s name was initially missing from the list of players who are set to go under the hammer on November 24-25. He was a part of Mumbai Indians previously but was released ahead of the auction.

As per ESPNCricinfo, Jofra Archer’s addition to IPL 2025 auction list has been informally communicated to all the teams. The report states that the bowler’s representatives were involved in discussions with both BCCI and PCB earlier this week. They reportedly sought clarity on repercussions in the event if he was not a part of the shortlist. However, it is highly unlikely that teams will bid for the injury-prone pacer. Besides, the BCCI has introduced a new rule for overseas player over skipping the tournament after being picked up in the auction. Such an instance will see a 2-year ban imposed on the player who does so without a valid reason.

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In IPL, Jofra Archer has played 40 games and has managed to get 48 wickets. He was picked up for Rs 7.80 crore by Rajasthan Royals in IPL 2018 auction. He was retained by the franchise IPL 2020 and 2021 before being released ahead of the 2023 season. He was then picked up by Mumbai Indians, His best season came in 2020 when he picked up 20 wickets. In 2023, he played only five matches and managed to take just two wickets.

Jofra Archer could have chosen to withdraw from IPL 2025 auction keeping in mind workload management. He will be an integral part of England’s setup for the next Ashes tour. If so, he was simply following the footsteps of his teammates, including Ben Stokes, in prioritizing red-ball cricket over other T20 leagues.