IND vs ENG: Jofra Archer in Trouble Before 2nd Test? Shocking Reason Revealed

England’s pace ace Jofra Archer, who recently returned to red-ball cricket after four long years, has found himself in the middle of controversy even before his official comeback to the national squad.

Archer is reportedly under disciplinary scrutiny for wearing black socks during a County Championship match between Sussex and Durham, a breach of the ECB’s kit regulations.

Archer Could Face Fine for Dress Code Violation

The 30-year-old pacer bowled 18 tight overs, gave away only 32 runs, and took a wicket, while also contributing 31 runs with the bat. But despite the solid performance, it was his choice of socks that caught the attention of the officials.

As per County Championship rules, only white or light grey socks are permitted in red-ball matches. Archer’s black socks, considered a dress code violation, might now earn him a fine or official warning from the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB).

This issue comes just days before England’s second Test against India at Edgbaston, which is scheduled to begin on July 2. Archer is expected to be in the squad, and the timing of this controversy could be a headache for the team’s management.

Shubman Gill Also Under the Scanner

Interestingly, Archer isn’t the only cricketer caught up in a sock-related issue. India’s Test skipper Shubman Gill also wore black socks during the first Test at Headingley.

While he smashed a century in the match, India lost by five wickets. Now, Gill too faces the possibility of a fine, ranging from 10 to 20 percent of his match fee, under ICC’s clause 19.45, which mandates white, cream, or light grey socks in Test cricket.

If both cases are deemed non-intentional or due to unavailable gear, the players might escape harsh punishment. However, these minor breaches have added unnecessary distractions ahead of a crucial second Test.