Will Jofra Archer Make a Comeback for England Against India? Here's What We Know!

Jofra Archer's Potential Return to Test Cricket

London: Luke Wright, the national selector for England, announced on Thursday that Jofra Archer, the prominent fast bowler, might be back in action for the second Test against India next month, marking his return to the format after a four-year hiatus.

The second Test is set to take place from July 2-6 at Edgbaston.

Archer, who is 30 years old, has not participated in first-class cricket since 2021 due to multiple injuries. He was not selected for the first Test at Headingley as he continues to recover from a broken thumb sustained during the recent Indian Premier League.

"Joff is progressing well, actually. The current plan is for him to participate in a few second-team matches," Wright stated.

"He is expected to play for Sussex against Durham during the first Test period. If everything goes according to plan, he should be available for the second Test," added Wright, who played alongside Archer at Sussex.

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

The thumb injury also caused him to miss England's ODI series against the West Indies from May 29 to June 3.

India's first Test will be held at Headingley starting June 20, followed by the second at Edgbaston from July 2, the third at Lord's from July 10, the fourth at Old Trafford from July 23, and the final at The Oval on July 31.

England's fast-bowling lineup appears to lack depth and experience without Archer and Mark Wood.

Wood has been sidelined due to a knee injury sustained in March, which kept him out for four months.

However, Wright mentioned that Wood could be available for the latter part of the India series.

"Woody has just started light bowling, which is a positive sign. He is gradually getting back into form. If all goes well, he might be an option for the fourth or fifth Test," said the former England player.