Archer Set for England Return? Broad and Buttler Advocate for Pacer's Second Test Inclusion

Before England officially announced their squad for the second Test against India, voices of support for Jofra Archer's inclusion grew louder. Former England international Stuart Broad and current star Jos Buttler both expressed strong opinions favoring Archer's comeback.

Archer, whose last Test appearance was in February 2021, is now poised for a potential return at Edgbaston. He was named in the squad on Thursday for the second Test.

Jofra Archer demonstrating his bowling skills during a recent match.

Speaking on their YouTube podcast, 'For The Love of Cricket,' Broad stated, "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 for Sussex in a first-class match against Durham, marking his return to red-ball cricket after a four-year absence. Despite securing only one wicket, his rhythm and overall fitness have been viewed as positive indicators by England's team management. Clips highlighting his comeback have also gained traction on social media.

Buttler echoed this optimism regarding Archer's chances of making 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.

Buttler also highlighted the significance of Ben Stokes' availability as a bowler, which could be instrumental in managing Archer's workload effectively.

"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," added Buttler.

Broad went even further, endorsing Archer to start. "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 1-0 after a remarkable run-chase in Leeds led by Ben Duckett and Jamie Smith, Archer’s express pace could present a significant challenge for the Indian batting lineup in Birmingham.