Jofra Archer on track to return for England's second Test against India

Somewhat incredibly, Archer's last Test for England was in February 2021. The West Indies-born paceman has endured multiple surgeries on his right elbow since then, as well as a stress fracture in his back.

And his injury woes continue. Fully fit and flying high in the 2025 Indian Premier League, Archer sustained ligament damage to his thumb while fielding a ball for the Rajasthan Royals last month.

However, England's national selector told ESPN that Archer should be ready to prove his Test match fitness in county cricket. The seamer is set to run out for Sussex when they face Durham in two weeks. 

"Jof's also trucking along really well, actually," said Wright.

"The plan is for him to play a few second-team games, loading up in the second team for Sussex. And then the idea for him is to play for Sussex against Durham during the first Test [June 22-25]. Then, if all things go well, fingers crossed, he should be available for the second Test.

"Like anything with all these bowlers, he's got to keep ticking things off every day with no setbacks. But, if all goes well and he gets through that Durham game, then he's available potentially for selection for that second Test."

The second Test of the five-match series is set for Edgbaston on 2 July. With the Ashes shortly after, it could be difficult return to red ball cricket for Archer.

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