Jofra Archer, England’s strike bowler, has been ruled out of the second Test in Chennai after receiving an injection in his right elbow.
Archer was instrumental in England’s 227-run victory in last week’s first Test, claiming three wickets in the match including both of India’s openers in a fiery new-ball spell in the first innings.
But he was unable to train on Thursday after reporting pain in his right elbow and has subsequently undergone a painkilling injection.
The England camp do not believe the issue is serious and hope Archer will have recovered to play in the third Test, in Ahmedabad, which starts on February 24.
Archer suffered a stress fracture in the same elbow around a year ago, though a statement from the England camp insisted “the issue is not related to any previous injury.”
The statement continued: “it is hoped the treatment will allow the condition to settle down quickly, allowing the player to return to action in time for the third Test in Ahmedabad.”
However, the injury is a major loss to England as they seek to build on the efforts in the first Test. As a bowler capable of generating 90mph pace, Archer had the means to transcend the conditions while the surface was still true in the first half of the game.
Mark Wood, who featured in the Sri Lanka series, would have been the obvious pace replacement. However, he is currently back in England resting ahead of his return to the squad in time for the third Test.
With England reluctant to play both James Anderson and Stuart Broad in the same XI, Olly Stone is the other out-and-out paceman in England’s ranks. while Chris Woakes may also come into consideration.
More to follow.
George Dobell is a senior correspondent at ESPNcricinfo
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