Jofra Archer an Ashes doubt after returning from IPL with elbow issue

Jofra Archer was in line to be a key figure for England during the Ashes having seemingly recovered from long-standing injury issues. Photograph: Alastair Grant/PA

Jofra Archer’s tortuous search for full fitness has taken another frustrating twist, with the fast bowler ruled out of the remainder of the Indian Premier League season and returning immediately to England to recover from his latest elbow surgery and improve his chances of participating in the Ashes.

Archer has played only five of Mumbai Indians’ first 10 games in the IPL and will now miss their four remaining regular fixtures, including Tuesday’s against Royal Challengers Bangalore at Wankhede Stadium, and any in the post-season playoffs. He had minor elbow surgery in Belgium last month and despite rapidly returning to action has not felt comfortable.