England are reportedly hopeful Jofra Archer could be back in action early next year after spending almost two years out of action with injury.
Archer last played for England in March 2021 and was first sidelined with a serious elbow problem, with the 27-year-old undergoing two operations in a bid to fix it. However, before he could return to action for Sussex in the T20 Blast earlier this year, he suffered a stress fracture of the back and was ruled out for the entire summer.
He is now back bowling with Sussex as he continues his recovery and the Telegraph report that England are 'cautiously optimistic' Archer could make his international return against South Africa early next year.
England are set to play three ODIs against the Proteas in January 2023 to make up for the tour that was abandoned in 2020 due to Covid concerns, although the specific dates are still yet to be confirmed.
Archer is due to join up with England's Test squad for a camp in Abu Dhabi, which begins on November 18 as part of their preparation for the upcoming three Test series against Pakistan in December.
However, Archer will not be ready to play against Pakistan and England are instead hopeful the South Africa series will mark his return to the side ahead of a bumper year of cricket which includes a home Ashes series and England's 50-over World Cup defence.
Former England bowler Steven Finn is now teammates with Archer at Sussex and offered an update on his recovery last month. "He's progressing nicely," Finn told the i.
"I've seen him a fair bit over the last few weeks and he's very positive about the way it's all progressing and healing. The England physios are down quite frequently visiting him and checking how he's getting on.
"I've seen him batting in the nets recently as well, which I think shows it's getting better and healing as well. It's been a very tough 18 months for him but to see him up and moving about again and with a cricket bat in his hand is great."
Archer has also been utilising Pilates as part of an integrated approach with England and Sussex to support his recovery. He has been working with Anaya Grover from Men Do Pilates and says Pilates has been key to his rehabilitation.
"Pilates has been an integral addition to my rehab and training programme," Archer said. "Anaya has helped me to strengthen and increase my flexibility in the right areas.
"I feel more resilient and feel Pilates as part of my on-going routine. I can highly recommend Anaya and the service she provides."
