Will Jofra Archer play in 2nd Test vs India? England’s managing director reveals-OxBig News Network

England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) managing director Rob Key recently opened up on the possibility of Jofra Archer playing the second Test against India at Edgbaston, Birmingham. Archer has been added to England’s squad as he recently marked his return in first-class cricket, playing for Sussex in the County Championship.

Archer marked his return to the Test team after four years, having last played against India in 2021. Recently, Rob Key was asked if the speedster is fit enough to play the second Test vs India. The ECB managing Director said that he could play at least one of the next two Tests and also didn’t rule out the possibility of him delivering the first ball in Birmingham.

“I would imagine [that he will play at least one of the next two Tests]. As I stand here now, that’s where it’s heading, but who knows? He could bowl the first ball of the [Edgbaston] Test. All options are available,” Key told Sky Sports.

Furthermore, Key revealed that Archer could also go back and play the last two matches for Sussex if the team management feels that he isn’t ready for Test cricket yet.

“Yeah, so if he’s not, there’s a chance he can go back and play the last couple of games of the championship if we feel that’s the best thing for him. It might be the case even if he doesn’t play at Edgbaston that having him in and around is the best thing. But then he could walk out there and bowl the first ball of the test match. Who knows? All options are available,” he added.

Archer scalped 1/32 in 18 overs on his red-ball comeback and also scored 31 (34). Sussex’s next game begins from June 29 against Warwickshire in Hove. The 30-year-old has played two Test matches for India and picked four wickets at an average of 30.50. Several experts have warned against rushing Archer into Tests as he’s coming from a series of injuries. It remains to be seen if he gets the nod for the second Test set to begin from July 2 in Birmingham.

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