Jofra Archer Set to Miss Rajasthan Royals Remaining IPL 2025 Matches
The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 is nearing its climax, but the tournament has witnessed some unfortunate developments for Rajasthan Royals (RR). Their key fast bowler, Jofra Archer, has been ruled out of the remaining matches due to injury. This setback, coupled with the team’s early elimination from playoff contention, has left the Royals in a tough spot as they prepare for the final fixtures of the season.
In this article, we dive deep into the details surrounding Archer’s injury, the impact on Rajasthan Royals, and other England players who are pulling out of the IPL early. We also look at the Royals’ plans moving forward with new arrivals and their preparation for the remaining games.
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1. Jofra Archer’s Injury: The Blow to Rajasthan Royals
Jofra Archer, who has been one of Rajasthan Royals’ most potent weapons with the ball, will not be available for the remaining matches of IPL 2025. The England pacer sustained a thumb injury during the nail-biting one-run loss against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on May 4. This injury has forced the team management to take a cautious approach regarding his fitness.
A Rajasthan Royals official confirmed that Archer’s absence is purely injury-related and not because of the team’s elimination from playoff contention. “It is not a case of not being willing because we are out of reckoning for playoffs. He is nursing an injury and we are prioritising his fitness,” the official told Cricbuzz.
This decision shows the franchise’s commitment to the long-term health of their star player, especially with international commitments looming.
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2. Rajasthan Royals’ IPL 2025 Campaign and Current Standings
The Royals have had a challenging IPL 2025 season. Currently positioned ninth on the points table, Rajasthan Royals have managed only three wins from nine matches. With 6 points and a negative net run rate (NRR) of -0.718, their chances of making the playoffs were extinguished well before the season’s end.
Despite their struggles, the Royals are eager to finish the tournament on a positive note. The remaining two matches are critical opportunities to rebuild confidence and give young players a chance to prove themselves on the big stage.
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3. Other England Players Exiting IPL Early
Jofra Archer is not the only England cricketer to bow out of the IPL 2025 before the tournament ends. Chennai Super Kings’ (CSK) all-rounders Sam Curran and Jamie Overton have also decided not to return for their team’s remaining fixtures.
CSK, like Rajasthan Royals, has already been eliminated from playoff contention. The early exit of these England players highlights the growing trend of international stars prioritizing their fitness and national duties over the franchise tournament once their teams’ campaigns are effectively over.
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4. Jofra Archer’s Upcoming International Duties
Archer’s injury management also takes into account his upcoming international commitments. England is scheduled to play a white-ball series against the West Indies shortly after the IPL concludes. If fully fit, Archer is expected to be a vital member of the England squad in this series.
Given the rigorous demands of international cricket, it is prudent for Rajasthan Royals to ensure Archer’s thumb injury is fully healed before he resumes competitive action. This cautious approach benefits both the player and England’s national team.
5. Rajasthan Royals Preparing for Their Final Matches
Despite their elimination, Rajasthan Royals remain professional and committed to finishing the IPL season on a high. They have already begun intensive preparations for their last two fixtures, starting with a training session in Jaipur on Wednesday.
Their upcoming matches are as follows:
• Rajasthan Royals vs Punjab Kings (PBKS) – Jaipur, May 18, 3:30 PM IST
• Chennai Super Kings vs Rajasthan Royals – Delhi, May 20, 7:30 PM IST
These matches will provide a platform for other squad members to showcase their skills and possibly stake a claim for the next IPL season or international call-ups.
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6. New Overseas Arrivals to Strengthen Rajasthan Royals
Rajasthan Royals will also receive reinforcements with the arrival of several overseas players. Shimron Hetmyer and Wanindu Hasaranga are scheduled to join the squad in Jaipur on Thursday. Additionally, Afghanistan pacer Fazalhaq Farooqi is expected to arrive by Wednesday evening.
These new inclusions will boost the Royals’ overseas player quota to five, alongside South African youngsters Kwena Maphaka and Lhuan-dre Pretorius, who are already with the team. These fresh talents may help fill the void left by Archer’s absence and bring more depth to the squad’s bowling and batting departments.
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7. Departure of Rajasthan Royals’ Bowling Coach Shane Bond
In another setback, RR’s bowling coach Shane Bond has returned to New Zealand and will not rejoin the team for the remainder of the IPL season. Bond’s absence might impact the bowling unit’s morale and tactical planning during the crucial last stages of the tournament.
However, the Royals’ coaching and support staff will likely work hard to keep the team motivated and focused on finishing the season strong.
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8. Broader Impact on IPL 2025 and England Players’ Commitments
The early exit of multiple England players from IPL 2025 reflects the growing emphasis on player workload management amid packed international calendars. Franchises and national boards are increasingly prioritizing player fitness over franchise commitments, especially when teams no longer have playoff prospects.
This trend also highlights the importance of managing injuries and scheduling international tours wisely to avoid burnout and ensure players perform at their best for both franchise and country.
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9. Conclusion: What Lies Ahead for Rajasthan Royals and Jofra Archer
Jofra Archer’s injury and subsequent withdrawal from Rajasthan Royals’ final IPL matches is undoubtedly a setback for the franchise. However, the team’s focus on player fitness and upcoming international duties is a responsible decision that benefits all parties involved.
Rajasthan Royals will now look to their new overseas recruits and young Indian talent to finish the season with dignity and competitiveness. Meanwhile, Archer’s rehabilitation and preparation for England’s white-ball series will be closely monitored.
As IPL 2025 heads toward its conclusion, the Royals’ remaining matches will be an opportunity for the squad to regroup and build momentum for the future.
