England have named their squad for the second Test against India, set to begin on July 2 at Edgbaston in Birmingham, and the biggest headline is the return of pace sensation Jofra Archer. The 30-year-old fast bowler is back in the red-ball setup after more than three years, last featuring in a Test match back in February 2021 — also against India.

The announcement comes on the heels of England’s thrilling five-wicket win in the opening Test at Headingley, where they chased down a daunting 371-run target to go 1-0 up in the series.

Jofra Archer’s long road back to the Test arena

Archer’s return marks a significant moment for both the player and England’s Test plans. After struggling with recurring injuries — most notably a back stress fracture — the right-arm quick has gradually worked his way back through domestic cricket. He made his red-ball comeback for Sussex in the County Championship clash against Durham and looked in rhythm, prompting selectors to recall him for the high-stakes encounter at Edgbaston.

His inclusion is expected to bolster England’s already aggressive bowling unit, offering both pace and control against a strong Indian batting lineup.

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Unchanged core with a boost of firepower

Apart from Archer’s inclusion, the rest of the England squad remains unchanged from the first Test in Leeds. Led by skipper Ben Stokes, the team continues to back its young talents while also leaning on experienced heads like Joe Root and Chris Woakes.

England squad for the second Test:

Ben Stokes (c), 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.

With the home crowd advantage at Edgbaston and renewed firepower in the pace attack, England will look to double their lead and put India on the back foot in the five-match series.

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