England is seriously evaluating the return of Jofra Archer for the third Test against India at Lord’s, beginning Thursday. The fast bowler, who has been out of Test action for over four years due to recurring injuries, is being seen as a potential game-changer.
His inclusion could strengthen the side following their heavy 336-run defeat at Edgbaston, which leveled the five-match ICC World Test Championship series at 1-1.
Former pacer James Anderson has reportedly pushed for Archer’s immediate return, believing that delaying his inclusion might waste a valuable opportunity.
Anderson is said to have emphasized the significance of the Lord’s Test and noted that England cannot afford to wait until later in the series to utilize Archer’s skill set.
Archer recently took a significant step in his comeback journey by participating in a red-ball match for Sussex, showing promising signs ahead of a potential recall.
Head coach Brendon McCullum has remained cautious in confirming Archer’s place in the final XI but indicated that the pacer appears to be in strong physical condition.
McCullum acknowledged Archer’s match readiness and suggested he would be considered during the selection process. The coaching staff remains hopeful that Archer, if selected, would not only rediscover his Test form but also build on his previous performances.
Apart from Archer, England is also contemplating other squad adjustments. Gus Atkinson, who has been on the sidelines since May due to a hamstring injury, is nearing full recovery and could be an option for the pace attack.
Batter Jacob Bethell is another name in the mix, although McCullum has made it clear that Bethell’s inclusion would not come at the cost of spinner Shoaib Bashir’s spot in the team.
The series stands finely balanced, and the third Test at Lord’s is being viewed as a turning point. England’s decision regarding Archer, known for his pace and bounce, might play a critical role in shaping the outcome.
With the match approaching, all attention is on the final selection as England looks to regain momentum against a confident Indian team.
England Squad for Third Test: Ben Stokes (c), Jofra Archer, Gus Atkinson, 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.