Should Jofra Archer play 2nd Test? Michael Vaughan against rushing
What's the story
Michael Vaughan, the former England skipper, has advised against rushing pacer Jofra Archer into the ongoing Test series against India at home. After a thrilling series opener at Edgbaston, two two teams will clash in the 2nd Test at Edgbaston, starting July 2. Archer, who last played a Test in 2021, recently turned up for Sussex against Durham as part of his fitness test for the longest format. His return will boost England's inexperienced pace attack.
Game readiness
Thoughts on Archer's return
Speaking to BBC Test Match Special, Vaughan stressed that one First-Class match isn't enough for Archer's return. He said, "The good thing is that Jofra is back in the equation but I would like to see him play another four-day game." Vaughan also highlighted the difference in intensity between international level and county cricket, suggesting he would stick with the same XI.
Performance review
Selector Wright hints at Archer's inclusion
Earlier this month, England selector Luke Wright hinted Archer could be considered for the 2nd Test against India at Edgbaston, provided he fares well in the county game. Archer took a solitary wicket across 18 overs, conceding 30 runs, on his First-Class return. However, Vaughan's suggestion to see Archer play another county game is reasonable given his injury-plagued return to fitness lately.
FC cricket
First-class game after four years
Before the county match, Archer had not played a First-Class match in four years (May 2021). His last Test appearance was against India in February 2021. Following a string of injuries, England have been slowly re-introducing him into international cricket with white-ball matches. He was earlier ruled out of the West Indies ODI series with a thumb injury. The team now hopes Archer will be part of their bowling attack for ongoing India Test series going forward.
Career
A look at his red-ball career
Archer hogged the limelight in his debut Test series, the 2019 Ashes in England. He troubled the Australian batters with his fearsome bouncers. However, he has managed to play just 13 Tests ever since, taking 42 wickets at an average of 31.04. His tally includes 3 fifers. Notably, Archer snapped up 2 six-wicket hauls in the 2019 Ashes. Overall, he has taken 181 wickets at 24.91 in First-Class cricket.