New Delhi: Will Jofra Archer make his comeback in the upcoming 2nd Test between India and England at Edgbaston in Birmingham? England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) managing director Rob Key recently opened up on the chances of the pacer featuring for England in the 2nd Test, which gets underway on Wednesday, July 02.
With James Anderson and Stuart Broad retired, and Mark Wood currently out injured, England’s pace attack lacked the sting in the 1st Test against India in Leeds. However, the hosts produced a stupendous batting display in their second innings to chase down the target of 371 runs and win the game by 5 wickets to take a 1-0 lead in the five-match series.
In a significant boost for England, Archer, who recently made his first-class return for Sussex in the County Championship, had been added to the hosts’ squad for the ongoing Test series against India. When asked if Archer will be fit to play in the 2nd Test against the visitors at Edgbaston, Key expressed optimism and said the pacer is likely to play at least one of the next two Test matches.
He also didn’t rule out Archer making his much-awaited Test comeback for England in the 2nd Test at Edgbaston. Archer last featured in a Test match for England, against India in 2021 and will be making his comeback in the whites after 4 years.
“I would imagine [that he will play at least one of the next two Tests]. As I stand here now, that’s where it’s heading, but who knows? He could bowl the first ball of the [Edgbaston] Test. All options are available,” Key told Sky Sports.
Key further stated that Archer can return to the County Championship and play a couple of more matches for Sussex if the England team management feels he is not yet match fit for the 2nd Test against India.
“Yeah, so if he’s not, there’s a chance he can go back and play the last couple of games of the championship if we feel that’s the best thing for him. It might be the case even if he doesn’t play at Edgbaston that having him in and around is the best thing. But then he could walk out there and bowl the first ball of the test match. Who knows? All options are available,” Key added.