Jofra Archer Added to England Squad for Second Test, Poised for First Appearance Since 2021
England have recalled pace sensation Jofra Archer to their 15-man squad for the second Test against India at Edgbaston, marking his potential return to Test cricket after a four-year absence. The 29-year-old fast bowler last played Test cricket in March 2021 during England’s tour of India in Ahmedabad.
Archer’s inclusion represents the sole change to England’s squad following their impressive five-wicket victory at Headingley in the series opener. The Barbados-born speedster joins a competitive pace bowling unit featuring Chris Woakes, Brydon Carse, Josh Tongue, Jamie Overton and Sam Cook.
The timing couldn’t be better for England, who face back-to-back Tests at Edgbaston and Lord’s starting Wednesday. With rotation likely across the two matches, Archer’s availability provides crucial depth to Ben Stokes’ bowling arsenal.
The Long Road Back
Archer’s journey back to Test cricket has been nothing short of remarkable. After his last Test appearance in 2021, he endured a frustrating period battling recurring elbow problems and a career-threatening back stress fracture. Between March 2021 and May 2024, he managed just seven limited-overs internationals.
His comeback gained momentum this summer when he returned to white-ball cricket. Last weekend marked a significant milestone as he bowled 18 overs for Sussex against Durham at Chester-le-Street – his first first-class match since May 2021. Taking 1 for 32, Archer proved his body could handle the rigors of multi-day cricket.
“I know my body can hold up to red-ball cricket. The mental part of the game will be tough. Over the next couple of days, I’m going to have to battle a bit with it, but it’s all good.”
Ready for the Challenge
What makes Archer’s potential return even more encouraging is his positive mindset. Despite the physical challenges, he admits the mental aspect of returning to four-day cricket has been the bigger hurdle. “Today could have been the longest day I’ve ever had,” he joked after bowling on an unresponsive pitch at Chester-le-Street.
His recent setbacks, including a fractured thumb during the IPL, haven’t dampened his spirits. Archer views these as mere accidents rather than recurring injury concerns. “If you get cut in the kitchen with a knife, no-one’s going to call it an injury,” he explained pragmatically.
England’s selectors clearly believe Archer is ready. With no bowling restrictions placed on him during his county return, he’s proven capable of handling Test match workloads. Josh Tongue led England’s bowling at Headingley with 7 for 158, while Stokes and Carse chipped in with five and four wickets respectively.
For cricket fans across India who remember Archer’s explosive performances during the 2019 World Cup and his battles with Indian batsmen, his return promises to add extra spice to an already thrilling series. The sight of Archer steaming in at Edgbaston would complete a remarkable comeback story – one that seemed impossible just months ago.
