England’s Ashes campaign suffered another major setback after fast bowler Jofra Archer was ruled out of the remaining two Tests due to a side strain. The injury sidelines the pace spearhead for the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne and the final match in Sydney, further weakening an already depleted bowling attack.
Archer’s impact cut short
Archer had been England’s standout performer on a difficult tour, taking nine wickets across three Tests and registering his maiden Test half-century in Adelaide. His absence leaves a significant gap in both pace and experience. Captain Ben Stokes acknowledged Archer’s contribution, saying the bowler had answered doubts about his fitness and resilience after returning to Test cricket following a long injury layoff.
Data quoted by BBC Sport shows Archer’s five-wicket haul in Adelaide was his first in Test cricket for six years, underlining how crucial his comeback had been to England’s plans.
Team changes: Bethell in, Pope out
England have made notable changes to their batting order, with Ollie Pope dropped after a lean run of form. Jacob Bethell comes into the XI, continuing England’s search for stability at number three. Pope managed a highest score of 46 in six innings during the series and has failed to score a half-century in eight consecutive Ashes Tests.
Statistics referenced by BBC Sport indicate Pope has averaged just over 24 in his last seven Tests, a decline that ultimately cost him his place.
Bowling reshuffle and injury concerns
Gus Atkinson replaces Archer in the playing XI, while England continue to feel the impact of injuries after already losing Mark Wood earlier in the tour. Despite the strain on bowling resources, selectors have resisted adding another seamer to the squad at this stage.
Archer will return to the UK for further assessment, with his availability for the upcoming T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka yet to be determined.
England searching for momentum
With Australia holding a 3-0 lead, England’s hopes of salvaging pride rest on regrouping quickly. Stokes admitted morale in the dressing room is low but stressed that disappointment is shared across the squad as the team looks to end the tour on a stronger note.
England XI for the fourth Test includes Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Jacob Bethell, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes, Jamie Smith, Will Jacks, Gus Atkinson, Brydon Carse and Josh Tongue.
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