IND vs ENG: Jofra Archer Returns To Test Side After 4 Years As England Finalise XI For Lord's Showdown

England speedster Jofra Archer will play his first Test after a gap of four years as the hosts triggered one change to their XI ahead of the decisive third Test against India at Lord's Cricket Ground. The right-arm speedster replaces Josh Tongue, who has struggled for rhythm in the opening two Tests.

Archer, who made his first Test appearance at Lord's during the Ashes series in 2019, last played a red-ball match for England against India in 2021. Due to recurring injuries, the 30-year-old had been sidelined from the Test arena. He was in the squad for the second Test as well but the heavy 336-run loss at Edgbaston has forced the home side to trigger a change.

England have named their team for the 3rd Test. Jofra Archer is back after four years, for Josh Tongue in the only change.

Crawley, Duckett, Pope, Root, Brook, Stokes, Smith, Woakes, Carse, Archer, Bashir

— Will Macpherson (@willis_macp) July 9, 2025

Chris Woakes, who has also struggled, retained his spot, as does Shoaib Bashir. Team India have notably won last two out of three Tests they have played at the venue.

England playing XI: Ben Duckett, Zak Crawley, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes (captain), Jamie Smith, Chris Woakes, Brydon Carse, Jofra Archer, Shoaib Bashir.

Shubman Gill confirms Jasprit Bumrah's return for Lord's Test

At the post-game presentation at Edgbaston, visiting captain Shubman Gill strongly confirmed pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah's return for the Lord's Test, with the fast bowler rested from the second game to manage his workload. Bumrah picked up five wickets in the first innings at Headingley and will likely enjoy bowling at Lord's.

England also had Gus Atkinson in their ranks but have resisted the temptation to include him.

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