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England Test captain Ben Stokes has provided a significant update on the potential return of fast bowler Jofra Archer to red-ball cricket.
Lack of experience in England’s bowling attack
England have faced two major setbacks within a time span of one year with the retirement of pace duo Stuart Broad and James Anderson from Test cricket. These two stalwarts played a crucial role in England’s dominance, especially at home, for over a decade. With their departure, the responsibility now falls on the shoulders of young pacers like Gus Atkinson and others, making Archer’s return even more crucial.
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Jofra Archer’s sensational debut and recent performance
Archer had a sensational debut Test series, taking 22 wickets in four matches during the 2019 Ashes against Australia. However, the right-arm speedster hasn’t played in the format since 2021 and only returned to international cricket this year after a lengthy hiatus due to injuries. Archer was decent in the recently concluded T20 World Cup, taking eight wickets in eight matches at an average of 19 and an economy rate of 7.22.
Ben Stokes’ perspective on Test return
Ahead of the second Test against the West Indies, Stokes expressed his delight at seeing Archer back in action during the recent T20 World Cup. Nevertheless, he emphasized the importance of not rushing the fast bowler back into the longest format. Stokes acknowledged Archer’s unbridled desire to wear the white jersey again for the national team but highlighted the need to manage his return carefully to avoid further injuries.
“I know that Jofra is desperate to get back in a Test shirt for England. He’s very passionate about playing for England and he’s still got a lot of passion to play Test cricket. But he’s been through a very, very tough few years. Watching him play in the World Cup was obviously great. But I’m very close with Jofra, and it was just great to see him back out on the field,” Stokes was quoted as saying by the Mirror.
Emphasis on patience
Stokes further stressed the importance of patience, stating, “It’s about not getting too giddy with it. If we don’t have him for a year, let’s say, but it prolongs his career for another two or three years, that’s what we are looking to do. We’re not looking to rush Jof back,” Stokes concluded.
