Jofra Archer Eyes Return to Red-Ball Cricket Ahead of Second Test Against India

Jofra Archer is on the verge of returning to red-ball cricket as he considers playing for Sussex in the County Championship against Durham. This could pave the way for his participation in the second Test against India. After battling injuries for nearly four years, Archer's comeback is highly anticipated. England's bowling attack has struggled without him, and his return could significantly strengthen the team. With the ECB confirming his inclusion in the squad, fans are eager to see if he can make a successful return to Test cricket. Stay tuned for updates on his fitness and potential selection for the upcoming matches.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 23, 2025, 11:20 IST

Jofra Archer's Potential Comeback

Injured fast bowler Jofra Archer is contemplating a return to red-ball cricket prior to the second Test against India scheduled for July 2. Reports indicate that Archer may participate in Sussex's County Championship match against Durham at Chester-le-Street, marking a significant step towards his return to Test cricket after nearly four years away from first-class play.

According to a report from a sports media outlet, "Jofra Archer is set to make his comeback to red-ball cricket with Sussex, even though he was not included in the initial squad for the County Championship match against Durham. Should he complete the match without any setbacks, he could be considered for the second Test against India at Edgbaston."

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has confirmed Archer's inclusion in Sussex's traveling squad for the four-day match starting June 22. Although he was initially absent from the 12-player list due to fitness concerns, both Sussex and the ECB later clarified that he would join the team. If he remains injury-free during the match, Archer could be a valuable addition for the second Test at Edgbaston or even the third Test on July 10 at Lord's.

England's bowling attack lacked potency in the first Test of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy, particularly due to the absence of key pacers Mark Wood and Archer. India capitalized on this weakened bowling lineup, amassing 471 runs in their first innings at Leeds.

At 30 years old, Archer has faced persistent elbow and back injuries, preventing him from participating in red-ball cricket since 2021. He last played for England in white-ball formats and appeared in the 2025 IPL for the Rajasthan Royals. His anticipated return earlier this year with the England Lions against India A was delayed due to a thumb injury sustained during the IPL.

England captain Ben Stokes has acknowledged Archer's eagerness to return to Test cricket. With an impressive record of 42 wickets in 13 Tests, Archer's return could significantly enhance England's bowling strength for the upcoming series.

Stokes mentioned, "A few times, he would text me... I told him to take it easy. I know he’s feeling good, but we shouldn’t rush things." He added, "Archer has endured a tough time with injuries, but he has played a fair amount of cricket, albeit in white-ball formats. It’s exciting for England, and more so for Jof, that he’s in a position to potentially be selected for Test cricket."