Jofra Archer sets record as most expensive bowler in IPL history
- Jofra Archer recorded 76 runs in four overs with no wickets during a match.
- Sunrisers Hyderabad scored 286 runs, the second-highest in IPL history.
- Archer's performance raises concerns about his fitness for future Test matches.
In a recent Indian Premier League match, England fast bowler Jofra Archer experienced a difficult return to competitive cricket, conceding 76 runs in four overs while playing for Rajasthan Royals against Sunrisers Hyderabad. This match, which took place in India, has pushed Archer's figures into the record books as the highest runs ever conceded by a bowler in the IPL, surpassing the previous record held by Mohit Sharma. Sunrisers Hyderabad managed to accumulate a staggering total of 286 runs in their innings, marking it as the second-highest score recorded in the IPL's history. Archer faced a tough challenge right from the onset, with Sunrisers' batsman Travis Head taking the lead. In Archer's opening over, he conceded 23 runs, which set the tone for his spell. Head's aggressive play included hitting a six and four fours, highlighting the pressure Archer was under from the start. Although Archer's second over was less expensive at 12 runs, it was his third over that caused the most damage, where Ishan Kishan capitalized on Archer's lack of control and hit three sixes for a total of 19 runs. The culmination of Archer's bowling performance included a chaotic end that saw him concede additional runs due to four byes off a full toss no-ball. This debacle left him with figures of four overs, 76 runs, and no wickets—a disheartening statistic that raises concerns regarding his fitness as England prepares for their summer Test matches. The exceptional performance by Sunrisers Hyderabad, particularly from their influential players, showcased their batting strength and raised questions about the bowling capabilities of the Rajasthan Royals. The match not only emphasized Archer's struggles but also pointed out the efficient and powerful batting lineup of Sunrisers, leading to a consequential moment in IPL history. Archer's unwanted record has sparked discussions within the cricket community about his form, fitness, and place in future matches as he strives to regain his peak performance level.