STOKES & ARCHER GET AUSSIE SEAL OF APPROVAL

STARS Stokes & Archer have been shining in IPL

AUSTRALIANS aren’t famous for heaping praise on England cricketers.

But Andrew McDonald is prepared to make an exception for Jofra Archer and Ben Stokes.

The Australia assistant coach has seen the pair close up during the Indian Premier League in his role as their head coach at the Rajasthan Royals.

Archer has enjoyed a magnificent tournament, bowling regularly at over 90mph and boasting one of the best economy rates. Stokes has shone too, and hit his first century for the Royals against the

Mumbai Indians last week, smashing 107 not out off just 60 balls.

McDonald said: “Ben is a three-dimensional player. You talk about the X-Factor and Ben is involved in all three facets of the game, batting, bowling and fielding. So he can really influence matches.

“As for Jofra, he has been amazing. He’s a genuine wicket-taker, he’s got ball-speed — and when he’s got the ball in his hand anything can happen.

“I’ve also been really, really impressed with the work he puts into his lower-order batting.”

Watch the Rajasthan Royals take on Kolkata Knight Riders in the team’s next IPL match on Sky Sports, from 2pm today