England have suffered another major setback in the Ashes after fast bowler Jofra Archer was ruled out of the remainder of the series due to a side strain. The injury means Archer will miss both the fourth Test in Melbourne and the final Test in Sydney, further deepening England’s troubles on a difficult tour of Australia.
The 30-year-old pacer, who made his return to Test cricket in July after a four-year injury layoff, sustained the issue during the third Test in Adelaide. Archer was visibly restricted in the second innings, and scans conducted in Melbourne later confirmed the side strain.
England’s Standout Performer
Despite England’s struggles in the series, Archer has been one of their few positives. He has taken nine wickets across the matches and scored his maiden Test half-century in Adelaide, underlining his value as an all-round contributor.
His absence adds to England’s growing injury list, with Mark Wood already ruled out of the tour, leaving the pace attack significantly weakened at a crucial stage of the Ashes.
Return to UK and World Cup Uncertainty
The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) confirmed that Archer will return to the UK after the fourth Test for further medical assessment. A final decision on his availability for the upcoming T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka will be taken at a later date.
Changes in England’s Playing XI
England have made multiple changes to their lineup in response to the mounting pressure. Gus Atkinson has been named as Archer’s replacement, while batter Ollie Pope has been dropped following a poor run of form. Jacob Bethell comes into the side as England search for solutions.
With England trailing 3–0 in the series, the latest injury blow highlights the challenges facing the team management as they attempt to salvage pride in the remaining matches of the Ashes.
