England fast bowler Jofra Archer has returned early from the Indian Premier League, just five weeks before the start of the Ashes’ first Test.
The 28-year-old is struggling with a long-term elbow injury and has made just five appearances for the Mumbai Indians this year, taking two wickets.
The England and Wales Cricket Board said Archer would undergo a “period of rest and rehabilitation”.
The first Test against Australia will take place from June 16 to 20 in Edgbaston.
Archer had minor surgery on his right elbow earlier in April after missing four IPL games.
It was Archer’s fifth surgery in the region in the last two years, having first battled the problem during England’s tour of India in 2021.
He didn’t 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 has recovered from surgery on his right elbow. However, working through the discomfort while playing recently, hoping it will subside, has proven difficult,” an ECB statement read.
“Therefore, it has been agreed that he returns to the UK for a period of rest and rehabilitation to give him the best opportunity to fully recover.”
Archer will be replaced at Mumbai Indians by England teammate Chris Jordan and will work with Sussex and the ECB Medical Service on his rehabilitation.
