Jofra Archer marked his much-anticipated return to Test cricket in sensational fashion, making an immediate impact in his comeback match at Lord’s. After more than four years away from the longest format, the 30-year-old England pacer needed just three deliveries to announce his arrival. Archer, who replaced Josh Tongue in England’s playing XI for the third Test of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy against India, hadn’t featured in a Test since 2021, when he last played against India at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.

Despite a long rehabilitation journey and just one red-ball match for Sussex—where he bowled 18 overs and picked up a solitary wicket—Archer was trusted with the new ball at the iconic Lord’s.

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He didn’t disappoint. Coming into the attack in the second over on Day 2, Archer found his rhythm straightaway, consistently hitting speeds above 145 kmph. His third delivery, a brisk seam-up ball on a good length around off stump, did the trick. Yashasvi Jaiswal, who has been in prolific form, was caught off-guard trying to work the ball to the leg side. The resulting leading edge flew to Harry Brook at second slip, who made no mistake.

Edged… And carried!

JOFRA IS BACK! 🌪️ pic.twitter.com/xr0hgYtP72

— England Cricket (@englandcricket) July 11, 2025

The celebration that followed was one of raw emotion. Archer let out a triumphant roar, punching the air before being embraced by a delighted Shoaib Bashir. It was a cathartic moment for the pacer, whose journey back from injuries has been long and challenging.

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Jaiswal’s dismissal for just 13 was a huge early breakthrough for England, and for Archer, it was the perfect way to reignite his red-ball career. The Lord’s crowd responded with thunderous applause, recognizing not just a wicket—but a remarkable comeback.