Jofra Archer is closing in on a return to action – but it won’t be in the IPL.

The England fast bowler has been working with Sussex as he recovers from a hand injury.

He has bowled in the nets at Hove as the ECB and Sussex medical teams monitor his progress.

The plan is now for him go into full training with the Sussex squad next week with a view to getting some game time.

He will NOT be taking part in this year’s IPL, it was confirmed today.

It is expected that he will return to cricket in the next fortnight if he can continue to bowl and prepare pain-free.

That would appear to mean Sussex’s LV= Insurance County Championship fixture away to Northants is a realistic target.

Sussex are currently playing Yorkshire at Hove and have a home match against Lancashire next week.