Archer injury scare for England ahead of Cape Town Test
England were sweating on the fitness of Jofra Archer ahead of the second Test against South Africa with the paceman unable to bowl in practice on Wednesday due to a sore right elbow.
Archer was able to bat in the nets and also took part in fielding drills in Cape Town but could not bowl, the England and Wales Cricket Board said.
The 24-year-old has struggled to replicate his Ashes success during his first overseas forays for England, but did complete a five-wicket haul in South Africa’s second innings at Centurion.
The second Test of the four-match series starts at Newlands on Friday, with England looking to get back on level terms after a chastening defeat in the opener.
Archer’s absence would be a major blow for a squad that has been battling with an illness outbreak since arriving in South Africa. If Archer were ruled out, though, it would create space in the side for a spinner with some suggestion before this setback that England might even consider dropping record-breaker James Anderson or Stuart Broad to create such a vacancy.
Dom Bess and Matt Parkinson would appear to be competing for that spot with Jack Leach still struggling.
Latest
-
NewsEngland ready to chase down any target India set, says Jonny Bairstow
The tourists established a commanding position, despite Bairstow’s knock of 106.
-
EnglandEngland still battling to contain India despite Jonny Bairstow century heroics
Bairstow’s 106 contained 14 boundaries and two sixes, but England still gave up a 132-run lead after being bowled out for 284.
-
EnglandJonny Bairstow century heroics for England not enough to keep India at bay
Bairstow made 106 in typically rambunctious style, with 14 boundaries and two sixes.
-
NewsIn-form Jonny Bairstow leads England charge against India in Edgbaston decider
The Yorkshireman raced to 91 not out as England progressed to 200 for six.
-
NewsJames Anderson expects England to maintain their aggressive approach
India are in control of Ben Stokes’ team at Edgbaston.
-
NewsStuart Broad delivers costliest Test innings as India take control at Edgbaston
Broad gave up a record 35 runs in the penultimate over of India’s first innings.
-
NewsStuart Broad over costs a Test record 35 runs as India take charge at Edgbaston
The tourists reduced England to 60 for three having made 416 in their first innings.
-
NewsStuart Broad makes history twice on wild morning at Edgbaston
Bowler reached two milestones, one definitely unwanted.
-
NewsTest cricket’s most expensive over – a ball-by-ball account
Stuart Broad’s over to Jasprit Bumrah went for 35 – seven more than the previous record.
-
NewsNew England captain Jos Buttler unable to prevent Lancashire defeat in Blast
The Lightning were defeated by Worcestershire Rapids.