Jofra Archer is on the cusp of making a return to Test cricket, with England’s national selector, Luke Wright, suggesting Archer could feature in the second Test against India at Edgbaston next month. This is contingent on his successful performance and fitness in Sussex’s match against Durham at Chester-le-Street, scheduled in two weeks.
The 30-year-old fast bowler has been absent from the first-class scene for over four years owing to persistent injury woes, including multiple operations on his elbow and a stress fracture in his back. His recent attempt to re-enter red-ball cricket with England Lions against India A was thwarted by a thumb ligament injury sustained during the IPL. Despite this setback, Archer is now moving closer to full match fitness. England’s selectors, mindful of an important Test summer and an Ashes tour, are eager to have Archer back in the fold.
Regarding Archer’s progress, Wright commented, “Jof’s also trucking along really well actually. The plan is for him to play a few second-team games, loading up in the second team for Sussex. And then the idea for him is to play for Sussex against Durham during the first Test [June 22-25]. Then if all things go well, fingers crossed, he should be available for the second Test.”
Archer’s last first-class appearance was for Sussex against Kent in May 2021, preceding a recurring elbow issue. His recent Test cap was also against India in Ahmedabad earlier that same year. Over 13 Tests, Archer has amassed an impressive 42 wickets, sported a bowling average of 31.04, and has twice taken six wickets in an innings during the 2019 Ashes series.
Wright further explained, “Like anything with all these bowlers, he’s got to keep ticking things off everyday with no setbacks. But, if all goes well and he gets through that Durham game, then he’s available potentially for selection for that second Test.”
England will commence their five-match series against India at Headingley on June 20, followed by Tests at Edgbaston (2-6 July) and Lord’s (10-14 July).
By Andrew Miller, UK editor of ESPNcricinfo. @miller_cricket
