Jofra Archer is suffering from elbow injury and it was his fifth surgery on the area in the past two years, having first struggled with the problem during England’s tour of India in 2021.
The England and Wales Cricket Board said Archer would undergo a “period of rest and rehabilitation”
The first Test against Australia will takes place from 16-20 June at Edgbaston.
Archer had minor surgery on his right elbow earlier in April after missing four IPL matches.
He did not play for England for 22 months before a return to white-ball action in February 2023, taking six wickets in England’s ODI victory against South Africa.
Archer will be replaced at Mumbai Indians by England team-mate Chris Jordan and will work with Sussex and the ECB medical department on his rehabilitation.
England managing director Rob Key said only last week he hoped Archer would be available to play against Ireland on 1 June.
After two years, Archer hasn’t participated in a first-class game. England will need to be 100% satisfied that Archer’s body can withstand the rigours of a five-day match before allowing him to play Test cricket once more, if at all.
After multiple surgeries on his elbow, the fact that Archer cannot get through a four-over spell in a T20 match without feeling discomfort is a huge concern.
This news comes as pace bowler Olly Stone faces a scan on a hamstring injury, while Mark Wood has previously stated he does not think he could play more than three Ashes Tests. England may once again have to revert to the fast-medium (and good quality) combo of James Anderson, Stuart Broad and Ollie Robinson.
Above all, thoughts are with Archer, who has gone through so much in his battle to get fit. The arrival of the Australians evokes memories of his electrifying Lord’s duel with Steve Smith, who was left concussed by a terrifying Archer bouncer.
The entire world was at Archer’s disposal at that point. It is hoped that he can return to the top level in good enough shape to showcase his exceptional talent.
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