In a highly anticipated development, England have confirmed the return of pace sensation Jofra Archer to their Test playing XI for the crucial third Test against India at Lord’s, marking his first appearance in the longest format of the game in over four years. The decision sees Josh Tongue make way, while Gus Atkinson, despite being added to the squad, has not made the final cut for the match starting July 10th.
Archer’s Long-Awaited Comeback
Jofra Archer’s last Test match was against India in February 2021. Since then, persistent elbow and back injuries have kept the dynamic fast bowler sidelined from red-ball cricket. His return is a significant boost for England, who are looking to bounce back in the five-match series after India leveled it 1-1 with a commanding victory in the second Test at Edgbaston.
Archer recently made his red-ball comeback for Sussex in the County Championship, bowling 18 overs and taking one wicket. While concerns about his immediate match fitness after such a long layoff have been raised, captain Ben Stokes expressed excitement about Archer’s inclusion, highlighting his unique ability to change the game.
No Place for Gus Atkinson
Despite being added to the England squad after the Edgbaston Test, fast bowler Gus Atkinson will not feature in the Lord’s Playing XI. Atkinson, who impressed on his Test debut at Lord’s against West Indies in 2024 with a five-wicket haul, had been recovering from a hamstring injury sustained in May. While he was considered a contender for a spot, the selectors have opted for Archer’s experience and proven match-winning capabilities at this level.
England’s Lord’s Playing XI
The England team announced for the third Test against India at Lord’s features only one change from the side that played at Edgbaston. The full playing XI is as follows:
- Zak Crawley
- Ben Duckett
- Ollie Pope
- Joe Root
- Harry Brook
- Ben Stokes (Captain)
- Jamie Smith (Wicketkeeper)
- Chris Woakes
- Brydon Carse
- Jofra Archer
- Shoaib Bashir
England will be hoping that Archer’s raw pace and bounce, especially at a ground where he made his Test debut and enjoyed success in the 2019 Ashes, will provide the cutting edge needed to trouble a strong Indian batting lineup, particularly the in-form Shubman Gill.
