England medics probe Archer's elbow woes

England's medical staff are investigating Jofra Archer's ongoing elbow problems with head coach Chris Silverwood revealing that the issue could require "long term" management.

Archer played two Tests in England's 3-1 series defeat by India, but was unavailable for the second and fourth games after pain in his right elbow.

The paceman has experienced problems with the joint ever since the triumphant 2019 World Cup, breaking down on the subsequent tour of South Africa and later being diagnosed with a stress fracture.

He is currently back in training ahead of the Twenty20 series against India, and is signed up for a full Indian Premier League stint with Rajasthan Royals, but it is his fitness to withstand the rigours of five-day cricket that will be occupying England's minds.

Archer is seen as the future leader of the red-ball attack, once James Anderson and Stuart Broad eventually pass the torch, and is inked into play a central role in next winter's Ashes.

"I wouldn't say (I'm) concerned, no, but his elbow did flare up a little bit and the medical staff are managing that at the moment," said Silverwood.

"Obviously we'll monitor his progress. The medical staff are talking about how we deal with this long-term. It's not something I would go out and predict but we'll find out in the course of time won't we?

"I'm not sure surgery has come up yet, I'll be guided by the medics on that.

Regardless of fitness, there is a chance Archer will not be part of England's next Test side. The dates of the IPL season were officially announced on Sunday, with the final set for May 30.

That is earlier than initially predicted but any England players involved in the knockout stages would still be unable to take on New Zealand at Lord's on June 2.