LONDON — England's veteran fast bowler James Anderson has urged the selectors to include Jofra Archer in the playing XI for the third Test against India at Lord's, insisting the team "has got to" pick the fiery pacer to bolster their attack.
Anderson, England's all-time leading wicket-taker, believes Archer's raw pace and ability to generate bounce could prove decisive on a Lord's pitch that traditionally offers assistance to fast bowlers. "You’ve got to play Jofra," Anderson told Sky Sports. "He’s a match-winner, and we need that X-factor against a strong Indian batting lineup."
Why Archer’s Inclusion is Crucial
England’s bowling attack has struggled to consistently trouble India’s batters in the first two Tests. While Anderson and Stuart Broad have been economical, the lack of express pace has allowed the likes of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma to settle in. Archer, who regularly clocks speeds above 90mph, could disrupt their rhythm.
Key reasons why Archer’s inclusion could be a game-changer:
- His ability to bowl lethal short-pitched deliveries could exploit Lord’s steep bounce.
- He provides a genuine wicket-taking threat in the middle overs.
- His presence allows Anderson and Broad to rotate effectively, preserving their energy.
Fitness Concerns Loom
Archer’s fitness remains a talking point, given his recent injury struggles. The 28-year-old has been carefully managed since his return from a long-term elbow injury, but Anderson insists he’s ready. "He’s bowled well in the nets, and his body looks strong. We can’t afford to hold him back now," Anderson added.
India’s Batting Depth Demands Aggression
India’s batting lineup has shown resilience, with Shubman Gill and Yashasvi Jaiswal providing solid starts. England’s current attack, reliant on swing and seam, has lacked the intimidation factor needed to unsettle them. Archer’s inclusion could change that dynamic.
Former England captain Michael Vaughan echoed Anderson’s sentiments, stating: "If England are serious about winning this series, they need Archer’s pace. India’s batters are too comfortable against medium-fast bowling."
The Lord’s Factor
Lord’s has historically favored bowlers who can extract extra bounce. Archer’s record at the venue is impressive—he took a six-wicket haul against Australia in the 2019 Ashes, showcasing his ability to thrive in these conditions.
England’s head coach, Brendon McCullum, has previously emphasized an aggressive approach. Playing Archer aligns with that philosophy, as his sheer pace can force errors even from set batters.
Conclusion: A Risk Worth Taking?
While there are concerns over Archer’s workload, the potential rewards outweigh the risks. England need a spark to turn the series around, and few bowlers can provide that like Archer. As Anderson put it: "Sometimes, you’ve got to back your match-winners, even if it’s a gamble. Jofra is that kind of player."
The final decision rests with the selectors, but the pressure is mounting. If England want to level the series, unleashing Archer at Lord’s might just be their best bet.