Rishabh Pant Welcomes Jofra Archer's Return to Test Cricket Ahead of Lord's Clash

Rishabh Pant's Perspective on Jofra Archer's Comeback

Vice-captain of Team India, Rishabh Pant, remains unfazed by the return of England's fast bowler Jofra Archer to Test cricket, as they prepare for the third Test of the series at Lord's in London on July 10.

Archer has been included in England's lineup for the upcoming Test, marking his first appearance in the format after a four-year hiatus. He was initially set to play in the Edgbaston Test but had to withdraw due to a family emergency. In this match, he takes the place of Josh Tongue.

The last time Archer played a Test match for England was during the third Test against India in Ahmedabad back in 2021. Since then, he has faced multiple injuries to his elbow and back, which kept him out of the squad.

Rishabh Pant's Comments on Archer's Return

During a press conference prior to the Lord's Test, Pant expressed his thoughts on Archer's return to red-ball cricket after such a long absence. He emphasized his focus on performing well with the bat while also welcoming Archer back to the Test arena.

"Whenever I step onto the field, I enjoy my cricket and aim to give my all. It’s not solely about any one player," the 27-year-old stated.

"It will be an exciting contest since he is also returning after a long break. But I’m glad he’s back," he added.

"I'm happy he's back" 😃 Rishabh Pant reacts to the news that Jofra Archer is back in the England Test team 💭

Archer's Recent Performance and Test Record

Before his Test comeback, Archer participated in a County Championship match for Sussex against Durham on June 22, where he recorded figures of 1/32 at an economy rate of 1.77 over 18 overs and scored 31 runs off 34 balls in the first innings.

Archer's return to the England Test squad is a significant advantage for the team ahead of the Lord's Test, especially after the series was leveled at 1-1 following India's remarkable victory at Edgbaston on July 6.

This will not be Archer's first encounter with India in Tests; he previously played two matches against them during the 2021 series, taking four wickets at an average of 30.50. However, this will be his debut in a home Test against India.

In the upcoming match, Archer will join seasoned bowlers Chris Woakes and Brydon Carse in the pace attack.

With his impressive speed, England captain Ben Stokes will be counting on Archer to secure early breakthroughs and challenge the Indian top order, particularly given the anticipated overcast conditions at Lord's.

Throughout his Test career, Archer has claimed 42 wickets, including three five-wicket hauls, with an average of 31.04 and an economy rate of 2.99 across 13 matches.