Former Windies fast bowler and current Sky Sports cricket commentator Michael Holding has lashed out against Jofra Archer, the English pace bowler.
Archer violated the rules governing the bio-secure environment in which the current Test series is being played between England and the Windies.
His behavior could have exposed other players to the COVID-19 disease and cost the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) millions of dollars.
Archer rerouted his trip from Southampton, where the first Test was played by traveling to his house before making his way to the second Test venue.
“I have no sympathy at all. I don’t understand why people can’t just do what is required,’ Holding said during an interview with Sky Sports.
The pacer was forced to miss the second Test as he had to self-quarantine. He was also fined and issued a written warning for his bio-security breach by the ECB ahead of the possibility of playing in the third Test should he test negative for COVID-19.
“Talking about sacrifices – Nelson Mandela spent 27 years in a little cell, and he did nothing wrong – that is a sacrifice,” said Holding.
Holding also berated the ECB for missing out on certain protocols that should have been in place to protect the players.
“Why aren’t the England team traveling on a bus? If they have already passed the COVID test and everyone is together, they have six matches and are moving from one venue to another, why aren’t they just all on a bus?” Holding questioned.
“Why are they allowed to travel by car? People need just to think a bit,” said Holding.
The Windies will continue to do battle against England in the second Test at Emirates, Old Trafford.
Day 3 of the match was washed out, and the Windies closed day two on 32 for 1 (Joseph 14*, Brathwaite 6*).
They trail England 469 for 9 (dec.) by 437 runs.
England needs to take 19 wickets in two days to keep their series alive against West Indies.
If not, the Windies will get to keep the Trophy as they are already leading the series 1-0.
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