England Name Unchanged XI as Archer Waits for Test Return vs India

Jofra Archer, England's fast bowler, continues to wait for a Test cricket return after more than four years due to repeated injuries. Despite being added to the squad for the second Test against India, he missed training because of a family emergency and England decided to maintain an unchanged playing XI following their thrilling victory in the series opener. Archer, who recently played his first red-ball match in four years with Sussex, is expected to rejoin the team ahead of the third Test at Lord’s, where he could make his comeback. England’s managing director of men’s cricket, Rob Key, and teammate Chris Woakes have expressed optimism about Archer’s potential impact and believe his best days are still ahead. Meanwhile, England aims to capitalize on India’s current vulnerabilities, including the likely absence of star bowler Jasprit Bumrah due to workload management. The second Test lineup remains consistent as England seeks to strengthen their series lead with Archer providing an important boost once fit and ready.