Jofra Archer is poised to make his long-awaited return to Test cricket at Lord’s this Thursday, ending a gap of more than four years since his last red-ball appearance. Having battled persistent elbow and back injuries that limited him to white-ball formats, Archer took a significant step by bowling 18 overs for Sussex last month and now reclaims his spot in England’s XI to face India—at the very ground where he made his debut in 2019.
Much like the circumstances of his first Test, Archer is being brought in as England seeks a breakthrough against a dominant opposition batter. Back in 2019, he was introduced after Steve Smith’s double centuries at Edgbaston and memorably struck him with a fierce bouncer. This time, Archer’s mission is to halt the incredible run of India’s Shubman Gill, who amassed 430 runs in the previous Test at Birmingham.
Single Change for England as Archer Replaces Tongue
England have made just one alteration to the side that suffered a heavy 336-run loss last week. Archer comes in for Josh Tongue, the series’ top wicket-taker with 11 scalps but also the most expensive, conceding at 4.56 runs per over. Tongue has shouldered a heavy bowling load so far, prompting the switch.
Brydon Carse and Chris Woakes retain their places despite high workloads—77 and 81 overs respectively in the first two matches. Carse, who appeared to be hampered by a toe issue at Edgbaston, did not bowl after the 27th over of India’s second innings. However, skipper Ben Stokes clarified that Carse’s discomfort was due to ill-fitting shoes, not an injury, securing his continued inclusion.
Atkinson Eyes Return in Fourth Test
Gus Atkinson remains sidelined as he recovers from a hamstring injury picked up in May against Zimbabwe. Although initially downplayed, his recovery has taken longer than expected, and he hasn’t featured in any competitive match since. Atkinson is expected to rejoin Surrey for the T20 Blast, aiming for a potential Test return in Manchester on July 23.
Archer’s Journey Back: Injuries, Caution, and Commitment
Between 2019 and 2021, Archer featured in 13 Tests, capturing 42 wickets at an average of 31.04—including a standout Ashes showing in 2019 with 20 wickets at just over 20. However, his workload during that period, especially under then-captain Joe Root, raised concerns. In one instance, Root controversially suggested Archer “could do more,” even after the fast bowler had bowled 42 overs on a flat Mount Maunganui track. That period marked the beginning of a series of injuries that kept Archer out of the Test scene.
This summer, England have taken a measured route with Archer’s reintegration. A thumb injury picked up in the IPL ruled him out of the series opener, and Stokes chose to give him additional preparation time rather than rushing him back for the second Test at Edgbaston. Throughout that match, Archer bowled consistently in practice under the supervision of England’s coaching staff and was ultimately deemed fit and ready by head coach Brendon McCullum.
Looking Ahead: Archer-Wood Duo a Future Prospect
While Archer returns to the fold now, fellow pacer Mark Wood was also spotted training at Lord’s as he continues his recovery from a knee issue. Though his return might not be immediate, England remain hopeful of fielding both Wood and Archer together later in the year—particularly in the Ashes series down under, where their pace and bounce could be crucial.
England have reportedly requested a livelier surface at Lord’s for the upcoming Test, though recent history suggests the pitch may favor batters as the match progresses. Regardless, all eyes will be on Archer as he marks his Test comeback—eager to make an impact once again in whites.
