England fast bowler Jofra Archer, who was purchased for ₹8 crore by Mumbai Indians on Sunday, says signing up with the franchise is like “starting a new chapter” in his career.
Archer is unlikely to play in this season’s IPL as he continues his recovery from elbow surgery, but was given permission to enter the auction with a view to compete in 2023 and 2024.
“I am super excited to be joining the Mumbai Indians. It has been a franchise that was really close to my heart and I always wanted to play for them as long as I could have remembered watching IPL cricket,” he said.
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“I am so glad that I have finally got the opportunity to represent such an amazing franchise. I am also going to get a chance to play with some of the biggest stars in the world. So I am really looking forward to starting a new chapter. See you guys soon.”
Earlier on Sunday, explaining the rationale behind picking Archer, MI owner Akash Ambani had said, “… Of course he (Archer) is not available this year but when he is fit and available, I believe that with (Jasprit Bumrah) he will make a formidable partnership.”
Former India fast bowler and MI’s director of cricket operations Zaheer Khan said the prospect of witnessing Bumrah and Archer bowling in tandem will be worth the wait. “You are eagerly waiting for the partnership to go on the field and so am I,” he said.
“To see two legendary fast bowlers bowling in tandem and I’m glad that it seems possible and will be worth the wait.”