JOFRA ARCHER has revealed three senior players asked for clear-the-air chats about his England call-up.

The Sussex speedster says Chris Woakes, Mark Wood and David Willey all wanted to clarify comments regarding his entry into the squad.

Now, having made his international debut in the four-wicket win over Ireland on Friday, Archer feels welcome in Eoin Morgan’s set-up.

He took 1-40 in Dublin — and his wicket was a trademark 90mph yorker that flattened Mark Adair’s off stump.

Archer, 24, plays again today in a T20 clash in Cardiff against Pakistan.

He is joined by Sussex team-mate Phil Salt, chosen for the first time by England as replacement for Dawid Malan, who has a groin injury.

Archer said: “Since I have been with the squad, I haven’t felt any malice. It’s a welcoming bunch. I’m happy.

“I knew most of the guys and it’s nice to come into a new team with people you know.”

When asked if any players had explained what they meant by their comments, he replied: “Yeah — Dave, Woody and Woakesy.”

Archer was born and raised in Barbados but his dad is English and he has a UK passport. Last year, England cut his qualification period from seven years to three and he became eligible in March.

But Woakes said it would be “not fair morally” to pick Archer ahead of a more established bowler while Wood wondered if his inclusion might have a negative impact.

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Willey questioned whether he should come in “at the drop of a hat”.

The trio insisted they were supporting existing team-mates rather than being anti-Archer.

He was not in the provisional World Cup squad but it will be a major surprise if he is not in the final 15 announced on May 23.

Archer said: “I’m here to play. What happens after should reflect what I’ve done in this series.”


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