Jofra Archer to undergo minor surgery on cut hand

The fast bowler has also had a further injection in his troublesome right elbow that ruled him out of the ODI series between India and England

Jofra Archer will undergo minor surgery on his right hand for a cut he sustained in January shortly before travelling for England’s tour of India.

The fast bowler, who featured in two Tests and five T20Is before flying home on Tuesday, suffered the injury while cleaning at his home. It was managed by ECB medical staff through February and March, and it did not impact on his availability.

However, following further investigation and specialist opinion upon returning to the UK, including a scan and consultant review, it was decided that the procedure – which will take place on March 29 – ­would help to manage the injury in the longer term.

Archer was declared unfit for the ODI series in India owing to an elbow problem, because of which he will also miss the start of the Indian Premier League. He has had a further injection to help with is recovery.

“One thing that we need to be very mindful of is that Jofra does need to give this elbow a chance to recover,” said England and Rajasthan Royals teammate Ben Stokes on Thursday.

“It's great that he’s come out and said he’s putting his England commitments before everything else. It's tough having an injury then getting through a game and then going backwards again. I think long term for his career, this is a very sensible option for him to be taking.”

Subscribe today and receive The Cricketer’s centenary issue – six issues for £19.21. Click here

Subscribe to The Cricketer for exclusive content every day: The inside track on England's Test tour with George Dobell in Pakistan, award-winning analysis, breaking news and interviews and the only place for in-depth county coverage all year round. Plus: An ad-free app experience at your fingertips. Subscribe to thecricketer.com today for just £1.