Ben Stokes Highlights Jofra Archer's Impact in England's Thrilling Test Victory

In a gripping finale at Lord's, England's Test captain Ben Stokes credited Jofra Archer's explosive bowling as the key to their 22-run victory over India. With a target of 193 runs, India struggled against Archer's fiery spell, which dismantled their batting order. Stokes, reflecting on the match, expressed his instinctive decision to choose Archer, recalling his significant contributions to England's 2019 World Cup win. As England's bowlers excelled, Stokes himself took five wickets, showcasing his leadership and skill. Despite India's efforts, highlighted by Ravindra Jadeja's resilience, they fell short, leaving England to celebrate a hard-fought win.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 15, 2025, 01:53 IST

A Memorable Day at Lord's

On July 14, 2023, England's Test captain Ben Stokes praised Jofra Archer's explosive bowling in the opening hour, which he believed was pivotal in securing a 22-run victory on the final day of the third Test at Lord's.

Six years after England celebrated their first ODI World Cup title at this iconic venue, the team experienced a wave of joy following five days filled with determination and resilience. On the last day, the task was clear: England needed to take six wickets while India was 135 runs away from chasing a target of 193 runs to gain control of the series.

With a fresh ball in hand, Stokes opted to utilize Archer alongside Brydon Carse. As KL Rahul and Rishabh Pant batted, Stokes chose to start the day with Archer to set the right tone. Archer quickly found his rhythm, striking first by bowling out Pant (9) with a fierce delivery.

Stokes then dismissed Rahul (39) leg before wicket, and Archer continued to trouble India by enticing Washington Sundar into a return catch for a duck, leaving India struggling at 82/7.

Stokes shared that his decision to select Archer over Carse was instinctual, influenced by Archer's significant role in England's 2019 World Cup success. He expressed, “It was an extraordinary finish. It was actually part of the reason I went with Jof and myself this morning, one of those feelings, what is it, 6 years now to the day (2019 WC win). Jof played a major role in that, just had one of those feelings he would do something special, and he cracked the game open with two wickets. It wasn’t an easy call; there was a bit of discussion in the dressing room.”

Stokes faced a tough choice, especially since Carse had performed impressively the previous day, taking two crucial wickets. He noted, “Brydon (Carse) had an amazing spell last night, he was charging in and had great rhythm, but it was a gut feeling. Jof’s first match back in the Test team, and sometimes your gut works. It is awesome to have him back. When he turns it on and the speeds come up on the screen, the feeling in the game changes. What an amazing job to get through the overs, first time out, tough week, but he got some crucial wickets.”

While England's bowlers worked in unison, Stokes was a standout performer, bowling 44 overs and taking five wickets, including three in the second innings. After a demanding match, he looked forward to resting for the next four days before the upcoming Test in Manchester.

Reflecting on the match, he stated, “I thought I had taken myself to some pretty dark places before. But today, bowling to win a Test match for your country... If that doesn’t get you going, then I don’t know what does. Bashir, broken hand, going out there and taking responsibility with the bat, then coming out and picking up the last wicket, absolute warrior to do that for the team.”

Despite the challenging situation for India, Ravindra Jadeja (61*) showcased his talent, forming a crucial partnership with Jasprit Bumrah. The pair resisted England's attack for 22 overs until Bumrah was dismissed by Sam Cook. Mohammed Siraj fought valiantly but ultimately fell to Bashir, ending India's hopes.