Jofra Archer’s successful return to Test whites at Lord’s after a four-year hiatus, has reignited his ambitions, providing a timely boost as he eyes a strong finish in the remaining two Tests against India to bolster his case for selection in the Ashes squad later this year in Australia.
The right-arm quick claimed five wickets, including a fiery spell in the first session of the final day to guide England to a 22-run victory and help the hosts go 2-1 up in the five-match series.
While England will still be careful about Archer’s workload because of elbow and back injuries previously hampering his availability in the longer format, Archer is confident of finding himself in the Playing XI for the remaining two Tests at Old Trafford and The Oval, respectively.
“I can play the other two if they let me. I don’t want to lose this series. I told Keysy (ECB managing director Rob Key) that I wanted to play the Test summer and I wanted to play the Ashes. I think one tick is already there and I will do everything possible in my power to be on the plane in November, or just before,” said Archer.
He also expressed happiness over his return to the Test squad under captain Ben Stokes and head coach Brendon McCullum has been handled.
“Test cricket is the format which would have taken the most time to come back to. I played 50 over and T20 for the last year, year and a half, two years.
“I think the mentality of the team under Baz (coach Brendon McCullum) suits the way I like to play my cricket so I just couldn’t wait to get back and actually do it. I think everybody put their body on the line, so it’d be a bit bad if I didn’t as well. Most of the last day is a blur. It’s nice to bowl fast but getting wickets is the most important thing,” he added.
The series now moves to Manchester for the fourth Test, starting July 23, before both teams return to London for the fifth and final match of the series, beginning July 31.