Jofra Archer added to England squad headlines the build-up to the second Test at Edgbaston, marking a potential return to red-ball cricket for the fast bowler after more than four years. Archer has been included in England’s 15-man squad for the clash against India, which begins on Wednesday, with England leading the five-match series 1-0.
Archer’s Long-Awaited Return to Test Cricket
A red-ball return had long been anticipated. Archer last played a Test in March 2021 against India in Ahmedabad. Since then, persistent elbow issues followed by a stress fracture in his back ruled him out of the longest format. The recent addition of Jofra Archer to the England squad offers fresh hope of him featuring in the format he once dominated.
Archer’s comeback trail began with Sussex in the County Championship, where he bowled 18 overs and claimed 1 for 32. Though the numbers weren’t extraordinary, his ability to hold up physically encouraged selectors to include him. The decision also provides England with rotation options for the Edgbaston and Lord’s back-to-back Tests.
A Competitive Pool of Seamers
Six seamers now compete for spots in the playing XI, with Archer joining Chris Woakes, Brydon Carse, Josh Tongue, Sam Cook, and Jamie Overton. Tongue emerged as England’s best bowler at Headingley, bagging 7 wickets in the match. Woakes and Carse also contributed, while Overton and Cook continue to impress selectors with domestic performances.
In a recent interview, Archer acknowledged the mental challenge ahead. While physically fit, he admitted the Test format demands more endurance and resilience. However, he remains optimistic and is eager to embrace the challenge head-on.
England Eyes Rotation Strategy
Given the packed schedule, team management may rotate their pace attack. Jofra Archer’s addition boosts depth and offers England the chance to manage workloads effectively without compromising on quality.
England Men’s Test Squad
Ben Stokes (capt), Jofra Archer, Shoaib Bashir, Jacob Bethell, Harry Brook, Brydon Carse, Sam Cook, Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Jamie Overton, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Jamie Smith, Josh Tongue, Chris Woakes
