Cricket World Cup 2019: Jofra Archer backs his tweet by bouncing Hashim Amla

England fast bowler warned batsmen to ensure they wear helmets six years ago when he came on to bowl

South Africa's Hashim Amla reacts after being struck in the head by a delivery from England's Jofra Archer. Nigel French / PA Wire

Jofra Archer had warned batsmen in a tweet as long as six years ago that he was going to come after them. He seems to be doing just that at the moment.

The fast bowler began England's 2019 Cricket World Cup campaign in sensational fashion by taking the early wickets of South Africa batsmen Aiden Markram and Faf du Plessis. But before that, he forced veteran opener Hashim Amla to retire hurt after striking his helmet with a bouncer at The Oval on Thursday.

Amla made five when he missed an intended pull off the fast bowler, the ball crashing into the grille of his helmet after he was beaten for sheer speed. He had several minutes of on-field treatment before walking off.

The Proteas were chasing 312 to win on an Oval ground where Amla made a South Africa record 311 not out in a Test against England in 2012.

Below is Archer's tweet from March 2013. Other opposition batsmen better prepare for a barrage from the 24-year-old right-armer over the course of the next month.