IND vs ENG: England Announces Playing XI for 3rd Test, Jofra Archer Makes A Comeback
Jofra Archer returns as England announce playing XI for the 3rd Test vs India at Lord’s.
India defeated England by 336 runs at Edgbaston to level the series 1-1. The next match of the five-Test series will be played at Lord’s from July 10.
Ahead of the game, England have officially announced their playing XI, with just one change from the previous match.
The big news is the return of Jofra Archer to the Test team. The fast bowler replaces Josh Tongue, who played the first two Tests.
Archer, who last played a red-ball match for England in February 2021, will be making his 14th Test appearance.
He had been sidelined with long-term injuries and has now been declared fit after a long rehab period.
Archer’s comeback is a major boost for England, who struggled with the ball in the second Test, especially as India’s batters posted a massive total.
Captain Ben Stokes will be hoping Archer can add some firepower and control to the bowling unit.
England Playing XI for Lord’s Test:
- Zak Crawley
- Ben Duckett
- Ollie Pope
- Joe Root
- Harry Brook
- Ben Stokes (Captain)
- Jamie Smith (Wicketkeeper)
- Chris Woakes
- Brydon Carse
- Jofra Archer
- Shoaib Bashir
The rest of the team remains unchanged. Jamie Smith keeps the gloves, with Jonny Bairstow still out. Shoaib Bashir retains his spot as the lead spinner.
The third Test begins on Thursday at Lord’s, and both teams will be eager to take the lead in this closely-fought series.
