The likelihood of Jofra Archer making his Test debut at Lord's in the second Ashes Test has increased after it has been confirmed James Anderson has been ruled out due to an injured right calf.
England's record wicket-taker broke down after just four overs in the series opener at Edgbaston and did not bowl again as Australia romped to a 251-run victory.
Scans have now confirmed he has no chance of taking part in next week's game at Lord's, with assessment taking place "on an ongoing basis" regarding his comeback.
Anderson, 37, was not expected to be on duty in the second Test after pulling up on the first morning in Birmingham and being restricted to two batting cameos at No 11.
The veteran had not played competitive cricket for a month leading into the match after injuring the same calf playing for Lancashire.
The England and Wales Cricket Board revealed an MRI scan had confirmed the bad news.
"The MRI confirmed that Anderson has suffered a calf injury," read a statement.
"As a result of the injury, he will commence a rehabilitation programme working with the England and Lancashiremedical teams.
"Anderson will miss the second Test match, which starts at Lord's on Wednesday August 14. He will be reassessed on an ongoing basis regarding his availability for the rest of Ashes series."
Archer had been in the 14-man squad for Edgbaston but had missed out due to concern over a side strain.
But he has played Twenty20 domestic cricket since and the player who bowled the Super Over that won England the Cricket World Cup in July is almost certain, barring injury, to line up at Lord's.
The other bowling option, with Mark Wood also injured, would be Olly Stone, who made his debut in the Test against Ireland two weeks ago.
England will announce their squad at the weekend. It is 14 years since they last won an Ashes series after losing the first Test.
Check out Paul Radley's gallery of England's player ratings from the first Ashes Test above.
