The Tamil Nadu Cricket Association (TNCA) may have confirmed allowing 50 percent of spectators at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai for the second Test between India and England, but fast bowler Jofra Archer said he will not believe it unless it actually happens.

Initially, the first two Tests of the upcoming four-Test series to be played in Chennai were to be held behind “closed doors” and the decision was backed by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB).

However, after the Union government announced that 50 percent of spectators are allowed in stadia, the TNCA has announced the latest decision, but England pacer Archer doesn’t want to be excited with the thought of finally playing in front of crowds till it happens.

IND v ENG 2021: TNCA confirms 50% crowd to be allowed in Chepauk for the second Test

As reported by PTI, Archer said: “Well, till it happens I won't believe it. The last eight months have been just as crazy and we have been made a mere promise (of fans returning) and something like that hasn't come off. So till I actually see the fans the walk-in, I won't believe it.”

Meanwhile, the pacer slammed the critics for questioning the ECB’s rotation policy by saying they have no idea of what it takes to be inside a bio-bubble for long.

The pacer further explained, “It's going to be a long, long year. Got few series coming up. I think body management is going to be essential if I want to play everything. Anyone who is criticizing it has never spent time in the bubble. One golfer left after four days. We have been in here for almost a year now.”

He signed off, “At the end of the day, humans are social people, and sometimes it gets hard, especially if you had not had a great game or if you are not feeling good. But then, in cricket, there is no escape. I think ECB has done great by making it a priority that everyone gets time away. So that, we can come back refreshed and ready to go. I myself had six weeks away.”

 (With PTI Inputs)