Jofra Archer Returns to Test Cricket, Named in Playing XI for Lord’s Test Against India

First Test Appearance in Over Four Years for Fast Bowler

London — England fast bowler Jofra Archer has been included in the playing XI for the third Test against India at Lord’s, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) announced on Wednesday.

Archer replaces Josh Tongue, who managed only four wickets and conceded over 200 runs across two Tests. The third match of the series begins on Thursday.

This will be Archer’s first Test match since February 2021, when he last featured against India in Ahmedabad. The 30-year-old has taken 42 wickets in 13 Tests. Though he was part of the squad for the second Test, he did not make the final XI.

Head coach Brendon McCullum recently confirmed Archer was fully fit and in strong contention for selection after overcoming a series of injuries, including issues with his elbow, back, and thumb.

England captain Ben Stokes praised Archer’s resilience, saying:

“Really exciting — it’s great for English fans and for Jofra Archer. The way he’s handled the injury setbacks has been very commendable. Now we can proudly say he’s in the playing eleven.”