The ECB is considering changing its regulations on residency qualification to allow Jofra Archer, the Sussex all-rounder, to be eligible for England in time for the World Cup and the Ashes next summer.

The 23-year-old, who was born and raised in Barbados and has represented West Indies Under-19, rose to stardom in the Big Bash League last winter and was sold to the Rajasthan Royals at this year’s Indian Premier League auction for £800,000.

Under the present ECB regulations Archer has to serve a seven-year qualification period and be “in residence” in the UK for 210 days a year, which would mean that he is not eligible for England until 2022, but The Times understands there are plans to accelerate the availability of a player