Jofra Archer Rule Out From West Indies Series, Begins May 29

Jofra Archer, a fast bowler for England, will miss the upcoming Three-match One-Day International (ODI) series against the West Indies because of an injury to his right thumb. The injury happened on May 4, 2025, while he was playing for the Rajasthan Royals in the Indian Premier League (IPL). In addition to his prior elbow and back problems that have kept him out of action for long stretches of time, Archer's injury history now includes this setback.

Who Will Replace Him?

After announcing Archer's absence, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) said that left-arm seamer Luke Wood will take his spot in the team. Wood last played for England in 2023, having previously played in two ODIs and five T20 Internationals. Over the next two weeks, the medical staff will evaluate Archer's recuperation and possible return to cricket, according to the ECB.

England v West Indies ODI Series, Begins From May 29

England will play a 3 ODI match series against West Indies, beginning from May 29, June 1 and June 3 at Edgbaston. Harry Brook is making his debut as England's new white-ball captain, which makes this series noteworthy. With the top eight teams in the world rankings as of March 2027 going straight to the 2027 World Cup, the result may also affect England's chances of qualifying.

Without Archer, England’s pace attack will become weak

Given his brilliance and speed, Archer's loss is a significant setback to England's pace attack. Due to his injury, he may not be able to play in the upcoming red-ball matches, including India tour of England Test matches series 2025 a possible appearance for the England Lions against India A, which would have been his first red-ball meet in four years.