Jofra Archer Eyes Return for Second Test Against India After Injury Recovery

Jofra Archer's Comeback Journey

London [UK], June 6: Fast bowler Jofra Archer is aiming to participate in the upcoming second Test against India at Edgbaston next month, contingent on his fitness during Sussex's County Championship match against Durham, as stated by national selector Luke Wright, according to a sports news outlet.

At 30 years old, Archer has faced a lengthy absence from first-class cricket due to multiple injuries, including several surgeries on his right elbow and a stress fracture in his back. His last red-ball match was in May 2021 for Sussex, and he hasn't played a Test since February 2021 against India in Ahmedabad.

Initially, Archer was set to make his return in the England Lions vs India A match this week, but he had to withdraw after sustaining a ligament injury to his thumb while fielding during the Indian Premier League (IPL) last month. However, he is reportedly nearing full fitness, and with a packed schedule ahead, including five home Tests against India followed by an Ashes tour in Australia, there is optimism that Archer can rejoin the team soon.

Wright mentioned, "Jof's (Jofra Archer) progress is quite encouraging. The plan is for him to participate in a few second-team matches for Sussex, and then he aims to play against Durham during the first Test (June 22-25). If everything goes smoothly, he should be available for the second Test."

Throughout his 13-Test career, Archer has claimed 42 wickets at an average of 31.04, including two six-wicket hauls during the 2019 Ashes series.

Wright added, "As with all bowlers, he needs to continue making progress daily without any setbacks. If he successfully completes the Durham match, he could be in contention for selection for the second Test."

Archer isn't the only fast bowler on the mend; Mark Wood and Olly Stone are also recovering from knee surgeries earlier this year and are gradually returning to bowling. Selector Luke Wright indicated that both may be available for later matches in the India series. Meanwhile, Gus Atkinson, who excelled for England in 2024, will miss the first Test due to a hamstring injury sustained during the recent series against Zimbabwe.