Jofra Archer is set to make his long-awaited return to Test cricket, playing his first match in over four years during England’s third Test against India at Lord’s. The 30-year-old quick last played in England whites in February 2021 against India. His inclusion marks a huge moment, not just for Archer, but for the England team.
Archer’s paddle back to Test cricket hasn’t been an easy one. He has waged a constant war with back and elbow issues since his last MLB game. Though the damage of the crashes was grave, he has come a great distance in his recovery. He’s well-prepared to play a part in the England team again. His Test return is, therefore, after 1,595 days between caps.
In truth the England team management took a big gamble. Only one change has been made as they look to bring Archer back into the fold for the final Test. And captain Ben Stokes backed Archer to rise to that challenge. He reiterated the point that the organization would not have picked him if they weren’t confident he was ready for it.
“If we did not think he was ready, or in a position to be selected, he would not be selected,” – Ben Stokes
Archer’s record in Test match salvation is good. He showed his match-winning potential when he took 42 wickets in 13 matches during the previous edition. His merits at Lord’s are even more extraordinary. Since making his mark back in 2019, he’s picked up 32 wickets in only seven Tests, averaging less than 13.
Even leading into this Test, Archer had played only one first-class game. In that game he bowled 18 overs, taking one wicket for 43 runs. This limited preparation has raised questions about his match fitness, but Stokes remains optimistic about Archer’s impact on the field.
“Whenever you take the field, you are always putting yourself at risk. It’s a professional sport, it’s a very physical sport. We all know potentially stuff could go wrong, but we would not select someone if we didn’t think they could get through it,” – Ben Stokes
Stokes firmly underlined how highly he values Archer’s other special skill, the ability to shift the momentum of a test match with his bowling. In particular, he said that the enemy is afraid of Archer and knows that he is able to perform in dangerous conditions.
“When he has played for England in the short format, it’s obvious whenever he gets the ball in his hand, there’s a change in the game. The opposition feel it as well, because they know what he can do in a spell. I don’t think there’s any reason we can’t see Jofra Archer operating at the level we saw at Lord’s on his debut,” – Ben Stokes
As England ready themselves for this pivotal Test against India, Archer’s return adds to the sense of excitement. Excitement is in the air among fans and teammates alike. They shouldn’t wait to see if he can come anywhere close to duplicating the special form he displayed on those precious few prior opportunities.
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