Jofra Archer’s Shock Test Comeback After 4 Years—England Drop In-Form Bowler for Lord’s Clash!
In a bold and unexpected move, England have brought back pace sensation Jofra Archer for the third Test against India at Lord’s, marking his return to the whites after nearly four years of injury setbacks and rehab. The high-octane bowler last played a Test in early 2021 and now replaces the series’ leading wicket-taker Josh Tongue, in what many are calling a gamble by the England management.
The Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy currently hangs in balance at 1-1 after India bounced back at Edgbaston with a crushing 336-run win. With momentum slipping from their hands, England have made just one change, opting for Archer over consistency and form.
Jofra Archer In, Josh Tongue Out
Tongue, who has scalped 11 wickets in two Tests and looked one of England’s few threatening bowlers, finds himself sidelined. While his individual numbers are impressive, England’s attack overall lacked venom, especially during India’s mammoth 587-run first-innings total in Birmingham. Archer’s inclusion signals England’s intent to bring back raw pace and firepower on a Lord’s pitch expected to offer some assistance.
Gus Atkinson Overlooked Again
There were murmurs of Gus Atkinson being drafted in, with some suggesting that Chris Woakes’ position was under threat. Atkinson’s ability to swing the bat and hit the deck hard made him a strong contender, but the team has opted to back Woakes and Carse instead.
The Series At a Crucial Turning Point
Having started with a thumping win in Leeds, Ben Stokes’ men were humbled in the second Test, and with the series now level, this Lord’s match could prove pivotal. India have not lost a Test at Lord’s since 2011, and with the visitors riding high on confidence, the return of Archer could make all the difference—or backfire dramatically.
England coach Brendon McCullum and skipper Stokes will be banking on Archer’s extra pace, reverse swing, and big-match temperament to revive England’s chances and reassert control.
England XI for Lord’s Test vs India:
- Zak Crawley
- Ben Duckett
- Ollie Pope
- Joe Root
- Harry Brook
- Ben Stokes (C)
- Jamie Smith (WK)
- Chris Woakes
- Brydon Carse
- Jofra Archer
- Shoaib Bashir
What to Watch:
- Can Jofra Archer hit rhythm after 4 years out of Test cricket?
- Will dropping an in-form Tongue cost England dearly?
- Can India continue their dominance with Gill, Siraj, and Akash Deep in red-hot form?
All eyes now turn to the hallowed turf of Lord’s, where the third Test begins with all to play for.
