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After suffering a crushing 336-run defeat at the hands of India in the second Test at Edgbaston, England are now in damage control mode. The series is level at 1-1, and with the third Test set to begin at Lord’s on Thursday, the hosts are desperate to bounce back. Team selection has come under scrutiny, especially in the pace department, and all eyes are now on whether Jofra Archer, who recently returned to red-ball cricket, will be given a chance.
James Anderson backs Jofra Archer to feature in Lord’s Test
Former England seamer James Anderson stressed the urgency of playing Archer in the upcoming Lord’s Test, warning that waiting to gradually increase his workload might prove costly later in the series. He pointed out that Archer has already featured in a red-ball game for Sussex and was actively involved with the team during the Edgbaston Test, even bowling in the nets. Given the importance of the third Test, Anderson believes England cannot afford to hold back and must include Archer in the playing XI straightaway.
“You could keep trying to build his overs up and play him later in the series, but it could be too late by then,” said Anderson, speaking to the ICC.
“I think he will play. He’s played one game for Sussex, he was around the team at Edgbaston and bowled a bit. I just feel like you’ve got to play him. It’s too crucial a game not to,” added Anderson.
With England trailing in the confidence department and facing a sharp Indian pace attack, Anderson’s endorsement signals the urgency to bring in a game-changer like Archer.
Also READ: James Anderson reveals the toughest batter among the ‘Fab Four’ of world cricket
Bumrah vs Archer: A mouth-watering contest in the making
As India confirmed that Jasprit Bumrah, rested during the second Test, will return for the third match, the potential inclusion of Archer sets the stage for a thrilling fast bowling showdown at Lord’s. Both bowlers possess raw pace, pinpoint accuracy, and an ability to rattle even the most composed batters.
The fans are in for a treat—two of world cricket’s fiercest quicks potentially sharing the same turf at the iconic Lord’s. With the series hanging in the balance, the stage is perfectly set for a blockbuster Test match that could define the summer.
Also READ: ENG vs IND: Shubman Gill reflects on India’s historic win in the Edgbaston Test
