Archer's Potential England Comeback: Broad and Buttler Push for Pacer's Test Return Against India

Former England fast bowler Stuart Broad and wicket-keeper batsman Jos Buttler have voiced their support for Jofra Archer's inclusion in the second Test match against India. This comes after Archer was named in the squad for the Edgbaston Test.

Jofra Archer showcasing his skills for Sussex.

Archer's potential return to the Test arena follows a prolonged absence, with his last appearance dating back to February 2021.

Archer's Promising Return

Speaking on the 'For The Love of Cricket' podcast, Broad highlighted Archer's recent performance for Sussex, stating, "He (Jofra Archer) played for Sussex this week, has taken a couple of wickets and looks like he's building up. And all the rumors and talk around the press box is he comes in at Edgbaston and he plays."

Archer recently played in a first-class match for Sussex against Durham, marking his return to red-ball cricket after a four-year hiatus. While he only managed to secure one wicket, his rhythm and overall fitness displayed encouraging signs for England's management.

Buttler's Optimism

Buttler echoed this sentiment, expressing his optimism regarding Archer's chances of joining the squad. "Hopefully he'll come through that game. He's playing up at Chester-le-Street unscathed. Looks like he's bowling well and he's actually put together a real bank of cricket," Buttler said.

The Role of Ben Stokes

Buttler also emphasized the significance of Ben Stokes' availability as a bowler, noting that it could alleviate Archer's workload. "And one of the big things for Jofra's workload that will help him I think is obviously Ben Stokes playing a fully fit part, you know, as that fourth seamer. Even if they don't pick him to play, it would just be fantastic to have him back around the group," the Gujarat Titans player added.

Broad's Bold Prediction

Broad went even further, advocating for Archer's inclusion in the starting eleven. "Yeah, I think I play him, you know, I think if it was my decision, I'd play him… He's got a bouncer that makes everyone jump. So I'd be really, I'd be tempted to play him and I think every England fan would be buzzing if you saw Jofra Archer's name on that team sheet."

With England leading the series 1-0 after a thrilling run-chase in Leeds, spearheaded by Ben Duckett and Jamie Smith, Archer's pace could present new challenges for the Indian batsmen in Birmingham.