Archer quick to deliver in Ashes boost

THE superlatives were flying for 'X-factor' Jofra Archer - even as England slipped to an ODI series defeat by New Zealand.

- FROM DAVID CHARLESWORTH in Hamilton

The Ashes start in Perth on November 21 - three weeks tomorrow - and the pace and brilliance of Archer could become one of England's key components.

Unleashed for the first time this winter, Archer was a leading light as New Zealand won by five wickets to secure a 2-0 series triumph with one match to play.

Archer's fiery opening five-over burst with the new ball yielded 1-8 as he trapped Will Young leg before for a duck.