Jofra Archer Returns to England Squad for Second Test Against India

England Prepares for Second Test Match

Following their victory over India in the first Test, the England cricket team is gearing up for the second match. Just two days after their win at Leeds, the England Cricket Board announced the squad for the upcoming Test. A significant highlight of this squad is the return of star fast bowler Jofra Archer, who has faced various injury challenges over the past four to five years. Archer has been included in the squad for the second Test, scheduled to take place at Edgbaston, Birmingham, starting July 2. This will mark his first Test appearance in over four years.

Squad Announcement and Archer's Impact

On June 26, the ECB revealed a 15-member squad for the second match of the five-Test series. No players were dropped from the Leeds Test squad, with Archer being the only addition. His return is a significant boost for England's bowling attack, which showed a lack of experience and sharpness during both innings of the first Test, where India's top and middle order posted substantial scores.

Archer's Long-Awaited Comeback

The right-arm fast bowler's comeback comes after more than four years. Coincidentally, Archer's last Test match was also against India, where he played his 16th Test during the tour in February 2021. Shortly after that match, he sustained an injury, leading to a series of setbacks that prevented his return to the longer format of the game.

Earlier this year, after participating in the Champions Trophy and the IPL 2025 season without any fitness issues, hopes for Archer's return to the Test team grew. He also played for Sussex in the ongoing County Championship, which coincided with the Leeds Test. In that match, he bowled 18 overs, conceding only 32 runs and taking one wicket. His performance and fitness met the required standards, prompting the English board to confirm his return to Test cricket.