Should England Play Jofra Archer in the Lord's Test?
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Synopsis
Discover why England great James Anderson believes it's crucial for the team to include Jofra Archer in the upcoming Test against India at Lord's. With injuries behind him, can Archer make a difference? Find out more about this bold decision as the stakes rise in the ICC World Test Championship series.
Key Takeaways
- James Anderson advocates for Jofra Archer's inclusion in the squad.
- Archer's recent return to first-class cricket raises hopes for his performance.
- England seeks to recover from a heavy defeat against India.
- Coach Brendon McCullum acknowledges Archer's readiness for selection.
- The third Test is a pivotal moment in the ICC World Test Championship series.
London, July 8 (NationPress) England cricket legend James Anderson has expressed his belief that the squad led by Ben Stokes should take a bold step by including the injury-prone pace bowler Jofra Archer in the pivotal third Test against India, set to commence at Lord's this Thursday.
Following a significant 336-run defeat to India in the Edgbaston Test, the five-match ICC World Test Championship series is now tied at 1-1.
Although Archer rejoined the England squad at Edgbaston last week and has not played Test cricket in over four years, he recently made a return to red-ball cricket at the first-class level for Sussex.
"You might consider building his overs gradually and using him later in the series, but it could end up being too late. I think he should play. He has participated in one match for Sussex, was around the team at Edgbaston, and bowled a bit. It's a game of such significance that you've got to play him," Anderson stated as quoted by ICC.
However, England coach Brendon McCullum refrained from confirming Archer's return, though he did mention that the towering right-arm bowler is fit and available for selection.
"Jofra appears fit, strong, and ready to go, and he is definitely in our considerations. It's incredibly exciting. He is enthusiastic as well. Having navigated through injuries and his absence from Test cricket, we all recognize his potential in this format and hope he can seize the opportunity when it arises and even enhance his performance in the game," McCullum remarked.
Earlier, England added fast bowler Gus Atkinson to their squad for the third Test, announcing a 16-player lineup just hours after their defeat to India by 336 runs in Birmingham.
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.
Point of View
The inclusion of Jofra Archer in the third Test against India is a gamble that could pay off. As England looks to rebound from a heavy defeat, the decision reflects both a need for experience and a calculated risk. It is essential for the team's success in the ICC World Test Championship.
NationPress
05/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Jofra Archer considered for the Lord's Test?
Jofra Archer's inclusion is seen as crucial due to his skill and experience, which could significantly impact England's performance in the series.
What has been Archer's recent form?
Archer recently returned to first-class cricket with Sussex after a long absence from Test matches and showed promising form.
How did England fare in the last Test against India?
England faced a heavy defeat by 336 runs in the Edgbaston Test, leading to the series being tied at 1-1.
Who is the captain of the England Test team?
The England Test team is currently led by Ben Stokes.
What is the significance of the third Test against India?
The third Test is crucial as it can determine the momentum and direction of the ICC World Test Championship series.
