### Jofra Archer's Long-Awaited Return to England's Test Squad After Four-Year Absence Jofra Archer, the fast bowler who has been sidelined due to injuries, is set to make his return to England's Test squad for the second Test against India at Edgbaston, starting July 2, 2025. Archer has not played a Test match since February 2021, and his last appearance in red-ball cricket was for Sussex in May 2021. His inclusion in the squad comes after a series of injuries that delayed his comeback, raising hopes for his performance in the ongoing series where England currently leads 1-0 after a victory in the first Test at Leeds [https://indianexpress.com/article/sports/cricket/jofra-archer-dont-rush-england-return-michael-vaughan-10089180][https://www.sportskeeda.com/cricket/news-star-england-player-makes-comeback-test-squad-4-years-eng-vs-ind-2025-2nd-test]. ### Breakdown of Jofra Archer's Return and Implications 1. **Background of Injury and Absence**: - Archer has faced multiple injuries since early 2021, which have kept him out of the Test arena for over four years [https://www.india.com/sports/star-player-from-sanju-samson-rr-called-up-for-india-vs-england-2nd-test-at-edgbaston-his-name-is-jofra-archer-7909090]. - His last competitive red-ball match was in May 2021, and he made a recent first-class return on June 23, 2025, playing for Sussex [https://www.indianexpress.com/article/sports/cricket/jofra-archer-first-class-return-england-injury-hit-pace-attack-10080954]. 2. **Recent Performance and Selection**: - Archer's performance in the County Championship included a quick-fire 31 runs, showcasing his readiness for a return to international cricket [https://www.skysports.com/cricket/news/38599/13387192/jofra-archer-hits-31-on-return-to-championship-after-four-year-absence-ahead-of-potential-england-vs-india-test-series-involvement]. - His selection is seen as a crucial boost for England's pace attack, which has been affected by injuries [https://www.channelnewsasia.com/sport/archer-added-england-squad-second-test-against-india-5205366]. 3. **Expert Opinions and Cautions**: - Former England captain Michael Vaughan has advised caution, suggesting that Archer should play another four-day match before making his Test return to ensure he is fully fit [https://indianexpress.com/article/sports/cricket/jofra-archer-dont-rush-england-return-michael-vaughan-10089180]. - The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has confirmed Archer's inclusion as the only change to the squad following their win in the first Test [https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/sports/jofra-archer-back-in-england-test-squad-against-india-after-four-year-absence/articleshow/122093184.cms]. ### Supporting Evidence of Jofra Archer's Comeback - **Injury Timeline**: - Last Test Match: February 2021 - Last Red-Ball Match: May 2021 - First-Class Return: June 23, 2025 - **Performance Metrics**: - Recent First-Class Match: Scored 31 runs in 34 balls [https://www.skysports.com/cricket/news/38599/13387192/jofra-archer-hits-31-on-return-to-championship-after-four-year-absence-ahead-of-potential-england-vs-india-test-series-involvement]. - Total Test Wickets: 42 wickets in 13 Tests prior to his injury [https://www.channelnewsasia.com/sport/archer-added-england-squad-second-test-against-india-5205366]. ### Conclusion: Jofra Archer's Impact on England's Test Strategy **Jofra Archer's return is a significant development for England's cricket team as they prepare for the second Test against India.** 1. **Inclusion in Squad**: Archer's selection marks a pivotal moment after a lengthy absence, potentially enhancing England's bowling attack [https://www.sportingnews.com/in/cricket/news/jofra-archer-back-eng-fast-bowler-returns-squad-edgbaston-ind/abf10832d112bdb074472348]. 2. **Cautious Optimism**: While his performance in the County Championship is promising, experts urge a careful approach to ensure he is fully fit for the rigors of Test cricket [https://indianexpress.com/article/sports/cricket/jofra-archer-dont-rush-england-return-michael-vaughan-10089180]. 3. **Strategic Importance**: With England leading the series, Archer's experience and skill could be crucial in maintaining their advantage against a competitive Indian side [https://thenewsmill.com/2025/06/jofra-archer-returns-as-england-announce-squad-for-2nd-test].