IND vs ENG: England Retain Same XI for Second Test Against India at Edgbaston

England have announced an unchanged playing XI for the second Test against India, confirming that Jofra Archer’s long-awaited return to red-ball cricket will not materialize at Edgbaston. The match, which begins Wednesday, is the second fixture of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy and comes on the heels of England’s emphatic five-wicket win in the series opener at Headingley.

Despite being named in the 14-player squad for the second Test, Archer was ruled out of contention after missing a key training session due to a family emergency, as reported by Sky Sports. The 30-year-old pacer had been in line for a potential return to Test cricket for the first time since February 2021, following a successful first-class comeback in the County Championship earlier this year.

England men’s director of cricket Rob Key had earlier hinted at Archer’s inclusion as a tactical option to exploit early breakthroughs on a lively Edgbaston surface. However, skipper Ben Stokes and the team management opted to maintain continuity with the side that chased down a record 371-run target in Leeds—their second-highest successful chase in Test history.

Archer’s absence prolongs the wait for fans eager to see the express pacer back in the longest format. Teammate Chris Woakes, England’s senior-most pacer in the current squad, praised Archer’s resilience and the work he put in to return to full fitness.

“Brilliant for Joff, brilliant for us as a team,” Woakes said during a pre-match press conference. “When Joff’s around, he adds a lot to the group—not just as a player but as a person. He’s obviously had a tough journey over the last few years with his injuries. It’s a credit to him for the hard work he’s put in.”

Woakes acknowledged the emotional and physical toll long-term injuries can take, adding, “To be able to hopefully play Test cricket again is a big step. We’re all delighted for him and proud of the way he’s come back.”

While Archer waits in the wings, fellow squad member Jacob Bethell also remains on the sidelines. Strong performances from Ollie Pope, who scored a fluent 106, and opener Zak Crawley, who made a steady 65 at Headingley, have solidified their spots, leaving little room for changes in the batting lineup.

England playing XI for second Test against India: Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes (c), Jamie Smith (wk), Chris Woakes, Brydon Carse, Josh Tongue, Shoaib Bashir.