Jofra Archer misses fourth South Africa Test after suffering recurrence of elbow injury

England retain Mark Wood and recall Chris Woakes for the match at The Wanderers after the late blow

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Jofra Archer, the England quick, has been ruled out of the fourth Test against South Africa after re-injuring his troublesome elbow.

The 24-year-old looked on course to regain his place in the team having missed the second and third Tests.

But after complaining of soreness in the joint while warming up ahead of the start of play he was omitted from the XI.

Several teammates consoled the Sussex seamer following the development.

It is the latest blow to Archer's Test career, which has seen him play just one match on this tour.

Mark Wood has been retained despite complaining of a side problem, while Chris Woakes returns to the fold for his first outing of the series.

Despite claiming a maiden five-for in the third Test at Port Elizabeth, Dom Bess has been omitted with captain Joe Root and Joe Denly the frontline spin options.

"Very difficult decision," said Root upon the XI being confirmed.

"Obviously waiting on fitness results and unfortunately Jofra has not been made available.

"We couldn't guarantee he was going to get through the whole game. Very disappointing for him. He's worked very hard to try and get himself back. Hopefully, we can get plenty more wickets again."

South Africa have also rung the changes as they aim to level the series.

Banned bowler Kagiso Rabada has been replaced by debutant Beuran Hendricks while Temba Bavuma is in for Zubayr Hamza. Dwaine Pretorius returns after missing the third Test, with Keshav Maharaj absent.

Vernon Philander is also among the XI in what is set to be his final Test. Faf du Plessis's future as captain beyond this series is also uncertain having this week been stripped as leader of the one-day international side.