Stokes defends Archer's Test absence amid criticism

England captain Ben Stokes has defended the team's decision to allow Jofra Archer to compete in the Indian Premier League rather than the start of the Test summer. Stokes warned that a more militant approach could lead to a situation where 'players like him might not play for England again.'

The decision has drawn criticism from former players, with Simon Doull calling it 'absolutely ludicrous,' Mark Butcher describing it as 'absolutely ridiculous,' and Michael Atherton terming it 'incredibly frustrating.' michezonews.co.za