Jofra Archer Set for England Return in Second India Test as Rob Key Hints at Edgbaston Comeback

England’s fiery pace sensation Jofra Archer could be in line for a long-awaited Test return as the second match against India looms at Edgbaston. Rob Key, the ECB’s managing director of men’s cricket, has strongly hinted at Archer’s potential inclusion in the playing XI for the contest beginning Wednesday, marking what would be his first Test outing since 2021.

The 30-year-old fast bowler was recently named in England’s 14-man squad after making his return to red-ball cricket in the County Championship—his first first-class appearance in over four years. Representing Durham against Sussex, Archer bowled with notable rhythm, picking up a wicket and contributing 31 quick runs off 34 balls.

Speaking to Sky Sports, Rob Key praised Archer’s resilience and the extensive effort he’s put into rehabilitation over the past several months. “There is a point where your bowling loads are there because of the building up you’ve been doing,” said Key. “It was a question of could he hit his straps and get up to a decent pace, which we felt he did. Jofra is such a talent… he has all the qualities of a world-class bowler—pace, release point, skill, accuracy.”

Though Archer’s return has divided opinion, Key suggested the door remains wide open for the Barbados-born pacer to feature. “He could bowl the first ball of the Edgbaston Test. All options are available,” Key added, acknowledging that England’s management would balance caution with opportunity.

Should England opt not to include him in the XI, Archer may continue his comeback by featuring in the latter stages of Sussex’s upcoming County Championship clash against Warwickshire at Hove. Yet even if he does not play, his presence in the dressing room is seen as beneficial.

Archer last featured in a Test match during England’s heavy 10-wicket defeat to India in Ahmedabad in February 2021. A series of elbow and back injuries then kept the promising pacer out of international red-ball cricket, making his current comeback a highly anticipated one among fans and pundits alike.

England lead the five-match series 1-0 following a dramatic run-chase in Leeds, where they hunted down 371 with key contributions from Ben Duckett (149), Joe Root (54*), and Jamie Smith (44*). With the Edgbaston Test crucial in setting the tone for the remainder of the series, Archer’s inclusion could provide a major boost to the bowling unit.

The England squad for the second Test features a blend of youth and experience, including Ben Stokes (captain), Shoaib Bashir, Jacob Bethell, Harry Brook, Brydon Carse, Sam Cook, Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Jamie Overton, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Jamie Smith, Josh Tongue, Chris Woakes, and Jofra Archer.