In a significant boost to their pace attack, England have brought back Jofra Archer for the third Test against India at Lord’s, beginning Thursday, July 10. The fast bowler, who made his debut during the iconic 2019 Ashes series, last featured in a Test match over three years ago — in February 2021 against India in Ahmedabad. Now, after a long injury layoff and gradual rehabilitation, Archer is set to make his 14th Test appearance.
The 30-year-old pacer replaces Josh Tongue in the playing XI. Tongue had been one of England’s standout performers across the first two Tests, picking up 11 wickets, but England’s selectors have opted to unleash Archer’s extra pace and bounce for the pivotal encounter at the Home of Cricket with the series level at 1-1.
Confirming the change, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) stated, “Sussex fast bowler Jofra Archer replaces Josh Tongue for the third game of the five-Test series. The 30-year-old right-arm quick returns to the England Test team for the first time since February 2021.”
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Archer has taken 42 wickets in 13 Tests so far, including four wickets in two matches against India. His inclusion adds depth to England’s pace unit, which already features Chris Woakes, Brydon Carse, and skipper Ben Stokes.
One change for Lord’s 🔁
After a four year wait…
Jofra returns to Test Cricket 😍— England Cricket (@englandcricket) July 9, 2025
Despite underwhelming returns in Leeds and Birmingham, young off-spinner Shoaib Bashir retains his spot. Meanwhile, England’s highest-ranked Test pacer Gus Atkinson, who was added to the squad after the Edgbaston loss, hasn’t made the cut.
There were no changes to the top order either, as opener Zak Crawley retained his place, leaving out promising all-rounder Jacob Bethell once again. The high-stakes Lord’s Test could prove decisive in shifting momentum in this thrilling series.
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England’s playing XI for the 3rd Test against India at Lord’s: Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes (C), Jamie Smith (WK), Chris Woakes, Brydon Carse, Jofra Archer, and Shoaib Bashir
