Archer’s up for role as England enforcer
ONLY seven months into his international career, Jofra Archer is auditioning for a new starring role — England’s go-to man on the flat pitches of New Zealand. The tourists are expecting the surfaces for the Tests at Mount Maunganui and Hamilton to offer bowlers less change than a thirsty local drinker might get from $25 for a couple of pints. But on a day when New Zealand A declared on 302 for six, Archer’s short-ball tactics provided an insight into England’s state of mind for the games ahead. As Glenn Phillips, the home side’s South African-born No 3 who hung around for five hours to score a courageous 116, put it: ‘Oh my goodness, that was the quickest I’ve ever faced in my life. He hit my forearm, nearly took my head off a couple of times and then got me in the chest a couple of times as well. ‘He’s got more of the spotlight on him now, so guys are realising just how quick he is. The challenge was unbelievable. With Steve Smith getting hit a couple of months ago, it’s in the back of your mind when he’s running in.’ Archer finished the first day of England’s final warm-up match before Thursday’s first Test with modest-looking figures of two for 58 and barely engaged top gear. But Darren Gough, who has made an excellent impression during his fortnight as the team’s fast-bowling consultant, was bullish. ‘Sometimes, short-pitched bowling is harder to face on pitches like this,’ he said. ‘You have one bowler in your side who does it and we all know who that is going to be — Jofra Archer. His third spell was outstanding. ‘There has been very little swing. Where they have placed England for these two Tests is quite clever. It’s not going to be Wellington, where you might get a bit of swing. It’s going to be hard work.’