As the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy between England and India moves to the legendary Lord’s Cricket Ground for the third Test on Thursday, all eyes will be on ace bowler Jofra Archer’s comeback to the red ball format. Archer’s return to Test cricket after four and a half years away has sparked widespread interest, and India’s vice-captain Rishabh Pant is eager to take on the task.
Jofra Archer, whose last Test participation came in early 2021, has been plagued by elbow and back problems that have hampered his red-ball career.
Following a 336-run defeat by India in the second Test at Edgbaston, the host team has resorted to their star speedster. Notably, Archer has replaced Josh Tongue in the XI.
The historic arena holds great significance for Barbados natives. In 2019, Archer made his Test debut and delivered the Super Over that sealed England’s ODI World Cup victory. On the eve of the match, Pant discussed Archer’s comeback and expressed his excitement to face him.
“Whenever I get on the pitch, I enjoy my cricket and strive to give my all. Nothing specific about any individual, simply being on the pitch. Yes, it will be a good match as always because he is also returning after a lengthy layoff. Let’s see how this goes. “Yes, I’m glad he’s back,” he stated during the pre-match press conference.
Rishabh Pant on facing Jofra Archer 🔥 pic.twitter.com/2qOWqnxMCA
— ִ ࣪𖤐 (@twitfrenzy_) July 9, 2025
Jasprit Bumrah to return to India’s XI for Lord’s Test
Meanwhile, the Indian vice-captain has had a brilliant series so far, scoring 342 runs in the series at an average of 85.50, including twin centuries in the first Test. His knock of 65 off 57 balls in the second Test played a big role in the visitors’ win.
India’s comprehensive win at Edgbaston has leveled the series 1-1. With Jasprit Bumrah expected to return to the playing XI, India looks in a great position. On the other hand, England’s bowling attack will hope Archer can deliver early breakthroughs.
India
