Jofra Archer axed by England for Second Test vs West Indies for COVID breach

England has been rocked with star quick Jofra Archer stood down indefinitely just hours before the start of the Second Test against the West Indies.

Man down.

Cricket star Jofra Archer has been axed from England’s team to take on West Indies just hours before the start of the Second Test on Thursday night (AEST) after breaking strict coronavirus protocols.

The England quick, 25, will be placed into isolation for five days and undergo two tests for Covid-19 in that time, The Sun reports.

He will only be removed from isolation if he tests negative on both occasions.

England revealed that Archer’s breach took place between the First Test and the Second Test.

The players drove in individual cars from Southampton to Manchester on Monday.

But England refused to say exactly what Archer did.

It’s not yet clear what Archer did, but his breach of the rules will see him miss the match at Old Trafford.

A remorseful Archer said: “I am extremely sorry for what I have done.

“I have put, not only myself, but the whole team and management in danger.

“I fully accept the consequences of my actions, and I want to sincerely apologise to everyone in the bio-secure bubble.

This one really hurts the Poms.

“It deeply pains me to be missing the Test match, especially with the series poised.

“I feel like I have let both teams down, and again I am sorry.”

England have been in their bio-secure camp for four weeks.

Players are expected to follow strict guidelines regarding social distancing, hygiene and not having contact with anyone from outside the bubble.

Archer took three wickets on the final day of England’s four-wicket defeat in the First Test - his best and most hostile bowling for almost a year.

He missed the final three Tests of the 3-1 series victory in South Africa during the winter because of an elbow injury.

Jofra Archer lifts his shirt to wipe sweat on the ball.

The West Indies team were made aware of the situation and are satisfied with the measures that were put in place following Archer’s breach.

James Anderson and Mark Wood have already been rested for the match at Old Trafford.

But England did not add anybody to their 13-man squad, which included a first call-up for Archer’s Sussex teammate Ollie Robinson.

Stuart Broad, Chris Woakes and Sam Curran - none of whom played in the First Test - were also in the squad.

— This story originally appeared in thesun.co.uk and has been republished with permission