Jofra Archer is ready for Lord’s Test, and England have called for a fast, bouncy pitch to bounce back from a heavy defeat against India at Edgbaston. Brendon McCullum and Ben Stokes are determined to regain control in the series, which is currently tied at 1-1.
England Pace Attack Expected to Lead the Charge at Lord’s
A lively pitch has been requested by the England camp. McCullum, speaking to media, stated they’ve asked for “plenty of life” in the surface. The decision came after England’s miscalculated toss and ineffective bowling performance on a flat Edgbaston track. With Jofra Archer ready for the Lord’s Test, the team aims to use home advantage more effectively this time.
McCullum hopes Lord’s will resemble the surface from last month’s WTC final, where seam movement played a key role. Fast bowlers dominated that contest, and England believe replicating those conditions can shift momentum in their favour.
India bounce back strong! 💥
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Win the 2nd Test at Birmingham against England 🇮🇳🔥
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Jofra Archer Returns as England Revamp Fast Bowling Options
After nearly three years away from Test cricket due to elbow and back injuries, Jofra Archer is ready for the Lord’s Test. He has built up match fitness in recent weeks and bowled steadily in practice. McCullum praised his progress and confirmed Archer is under serious consideration for Thursday.
Meanwhile, Gus Atkinson has also returned to the squad. Although his recovery has taken longer than expected, his record at Lord’s is outstanding—boasting 19 wickets and a century in two Tests.
England Unlikely to Tinker with Batting Line-Up
Despite Jamie Smith’s heroics at Edgbaston, a batting promotion has been ruled out. England will keep Smith at No. 7, valuing his dual role behind the stumps. Shoaib Bashir, despite a high economy, will retain his place too, with the coaching staff confident in his long-term potential.
