Archer's England Test Recall: Hussain Urges Caution Amid Injury Comeback in India Series

Former England captain Nasser Hussain has shared his thoughts on Jofra Archer's return to the England Test squad, labeling it a "gamble worth taking" while advising caution about immediately including him in the playing XI for the second Test against India at Edgbaston.

Archer, whose last Test appearance was in February 2021, has been named in the squad for the second Test commencing on July 2nd. The 30-year-old has been plagued by persistent elbow and back injuries in recent years. He made his return to red-ball cricket earlier this week for Sussex, bowling 18 overs against Durham and taking 1/32.

Hussain, in an interview with Sky Sports, acknowledged the emotional and physical challenges Archer has faced. "Firstly, it's fantastic news for Archer and England. Jofra has endured so much with those injuries, the rehab, the pain, and the mental strain of repeated injuries and comebacks. It's great to see him back in the squad… he hasn't played a Test match for four years."

However, Hussain urged against rushing Archer into the lineup for Edgbaston. "I believe it's too risky this week. It might have gone exceptionally well – I'm not familiar with Jofra Archer's physical condition – so they might say, 'we'll play you this week'. But then the dilemma is, who do you exclude?"

Despite this, Hussain remains optimistic about Archer's long-term contribution. "I still believe it is a gamble worth taking, I'm just unsure if it's worth taking this week. I would consider it the following week at Lord's."

England currently lead the five-match series 1-0 following their five-wicket victory at Leeds. The remainder of the squad remains unchanged for Edgbaston.

England squad for 2nd Test vs India

Ben Stokes (capt), Jofra Archer, Shoaib Bashir, Jacob Bethell, Harry Brook, Brydon Carse, Sam Cook, Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Jamie Overton, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Jamie Smith, Josh Tongue, Chris Woakes.