England’s pace attack will get a fiery boost as Jofra Archer returns to Test cricket after more than four years, replacing Josh Tongue in the only change to the playing XI for the third Test against India at Lord’s, starting July 10.
Archer, who last played a Test in February 2021, has been gradually building toward a comeback, seen bowling regularly at Edgbaston in the lead-up. Head coach Brendon McCullum confirmed the pacer’s fitness and indicated he would be considered, citing workload management for the fast bowlers.
“He’s fit and ready to go,” McCullum told BBC’s Test Match Special. “The other boys have played back-to-back Tests, so you’d anticipate a change — and Jofra is ready.”
Archer brings a record of 42 wickets in 13 Tests, with standout performances including 20 wickets in the 2019 Ashes. His return is seen as a significant boost, especially with the series locked at 1-1.
The rest of the England squad remains unchanged, with Jamie Smith retaining his place. The hosts aim to reclaim momentum at the Home of Cricket.
England XI: Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes (c), Jamie Smith (wk), Chris Woakes, Brydon Carse, Jofra Archer, Shoaib Bashir.
