Archer’s Comeback at Lord’s

Jofra Archer is poised to play his first Test match in over four years, named in England’s XI for the third Test against India at Lord’s, starting Thursday. The 30-year-old fast bowler, absent from Test cricket since February 2021 due to persistent back and elbow injuries, marks his return in a pivotal match with the series tied at 1-1.

Team Selection and Context

Archer’s inclusion is the sole change to the England side following a heavy defeat in the second Test at Edgbaston. Despite visible fatigue in Chris Woakes and Brydon Carse, both retain their spots, with Josh Tongue omitted to accommodate Archer. Woakes, despite claiming only three wickets in the series, boasts an impressive Lord’s record, with 32 wickets in seven Tests at an average below 13. Carse, cleared to play despite a lingering foot issue, also remains in the lineup.

England’s XI: Ben Duckett, Zak Crawley, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes (captain), Jamie Smith, Chris Woakes, Brydon Carse, Jofra Archer, Shoaib Bashir.

A Long Road Back

Archer’s Test career, spanning 13 matches and 42 wickets, has been plagued by injuries, with 1,595 days elapsing since his last appearance against India. England have played 53 Tests in his absence, and at times, his return to cricket—let alone Test cricket—seemed unlikely. Since his last major setback in 2023, Archer has followed a carefully managed recovery plan, supported by England’s faith in his talent through consistent central contracts.

His preparation for this comeback included a single first-class match for Sussex against Durham two weeks ago, where he bowled 18 overs and took one wicket. While his inclusion was anticipated, England’s decision to stick with Woakes and Carse over other options like Sam Cook or Jamie Overton is notable.

Lord’s: A Stage for Archer’s Legacy

Lord’s holds special significance for Archer. In 2019, his debut year, he delivered the super over in England’s thrilling World Cup final victory over New Zealand at the venue. Weeks later, he made his Test debut at Lord’s against Australia, producing a fiery spell that dismissed and concussed Steve Smith. His return to this iconic ground adds a poetic symmetry to his comeback, though not without risks given his limited recent red-ball experience.

Pace Prospects and India’s Response

On the same day Archer’s selection was confirmed, Mark Wood trained at Lord’s, progressing in his recovery from a knee injury. Initially expected to miss the entire series, Wood is eyeing a return for the final Test at The Oval, raising the prospect of an Archer-Wood pairing, which has occurred only once in Tests. India, meanwhile, are set to recall Jasprit Bumrah, rested for the second Test, bolstering their attack for the crucial encounter.

Outlook

Archer’s return is a testament to his resilience and England’s belief in his game-changing ability. However, questions linger about his physical readiness and the team’s bowling balance. As Lord’s prepares to host another chapter in Archer’s career, fans await to see if he can recapture the electrifying form that once made him a global sensation.