JOFRA ARCHER’S first Test training session was delayed by 24 hours because of a “family emergency.”

Archer did not take part in England’s practice at Edgbaston on Monday, increasing the likelihood that he would not be included in the starting XI for the Second Test against India on Wednesday.

The Sussex fast bowler, 30, was brought into the squad last week after bowling just 18 overs in a county championship match against Durham.

It was his first red-ball match since May 2021 and he has not played a Test match since February 2021.

Team supremo Rob Key hinted last week Archer’s Test comeback might be delayed until the Third Test at Lord’s on July 10.

An England statement said: “England men’s fast bowler Jofra Archer will not be joining the England Test squad for the training session at Edgbaston on Monday, 30 June due to a family emergency.

“He is expected to rejoin the squad on Tuesday, ahead of the Rothesay Second Test at Edgbaston, which begins on Wednesday against India.”

Archer has been hit by a string of injuries over the years – including a stress fracture of the back and an elbow problem that required surgery.

Fellow quick bowler Chris Woakes said: “Injuries are part and parcel of life for a fast bowler and Jofra has had his fair share.

“People don’t see the hard times recovering from all the injuries in the gym and with surgeons. 

It’s very exciting for us to have a player of his quality but, more importantly, for Jofra after all the hard work and dedication he’s put in.

 “It would have been very easy for him to give up on red-ball cricket.”