Ben Stokes Discusses Jofra Archer's Potential Return for Third Test Against India

Captain's Insights on Archer's Situation

Ahead of the third Test at Lord's Cricket Ground against India, England's captain Ben Stokes addressed the growing speculation surrounding Jofra Archer's possible inclusion in the playing XI. Although Archer was not part of the squad for the series opener at Headingley, his return for the second Test at Edgbaston had sparked optimism about his comeback.

Despite being part of the squad, Archer did not make it to the playing XI in Birmingham, as England opted for a pace attack featuring Josh Tongue, Chris Woakes, and Brydon Carse. Following a significant 336-run defeat at Edgbaston, England may need to reconsider their bowling lineup, with Archer's name once again in the mix.

Stokes emphasized the importance of managing Archer's workload, given the pacer's ongoing battle with injuries over the past few seasons. Since his debut in 2019, the 30-year-old has participated in only 13 Test matches, claiming 42 wickets, including three five-wicket hauls.

In the post-match press conference, Stokes stated, 'That'll be a decision we have to make, seeing how everyone comes together. We’ve had him here this week to get around the group and build him up with his workloads and everything. So, everyone’s being considered for the game at Lord’s.'

India is set to benefit from the return of Jasprit Bumrah for the Lord's Test, as noted by Shubman Gill. After England took a 1-0 lead in the series by chasing down 371 at Leeds, India made a strong comeback in Birmingham to level the series.

With the five-match series tied at 1-1, both teams are heading into the Lord's Test eager to assert their dominance, and England may look to Archer to help shift the momentum back in their favor.