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The opening day of the third Test between England and India at the iconic Lord’s Cricket Ground unfolded as a hard-fought contest between England’s batters and India’s disciplined bowling unit. England ended the day at 251/4 after 83 overs, a score that reflected more patience than dominance. The hosts were made to work hard for every run, with India maintaining tight lines and lengths throughout the day. With the five-match series level at 1-1, both sides know the significance of this Test, and a first-innings lead could prove decisive in the context of the series. Adding to the occasion was the much-anticipated return of Jofra Archer, featuring in a Test match for the first time in over four years.
England bring back Jofra Archer for the third Test after heavy defeat at Edgbaston
England suffered a heavy blow in the second Test, as the Indian team handed them a massive 336-run defeat. The dismal performance of the English side was marked by poor bowling, a lack of rhythm, control, and consistency that saw them leak runs at an alarming rate. Whether it was the pace attack or the spin department, the bowlers looked completely clueless and struggled to create any real pressure on the Indian batters.
The backlash was immediate, with heavy criticism pouring in from English cricket fans and former players, who openly questioned the effectiveness and selection of the bowling unit. In a much-anticipated move, England finally named Archer in their playing XI on Wednesday, replacing Josh Tongue. Archer, who has been battling an elbow injury for years, returns to the whites after a long layoff. The responsibility on his shoulders is immense, as England desperately look to bounce back and restore control in the bowling department at Lord’s.
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Archer’s performance in his only outing at the Lord’s
The last time Archer played a Test at Lord’s was during the Ashes in August 2019, and it remains a memorable red-ball performances, especially his battle with Steve Smith. Making his debut in the format, Archer claimed five wickets in the match and immediately made an impact. In the first innings, he removed Cameron Bancroft lbw and later dismissed Tim Paine, finishing with figures of 2/ 9 from 29 overs.
He was even more lethal in the second innings, where he took 3/32 in just 15 overs. His scalps included key Australian batters David Warner, Usman Khawaja, and once again, Paine. Archer’s fiery spells, raw pace, and ability to trouble even the best batters made headlines worldwide. As he returns to Lord’s for the 2025 Test against India, England fans will be hoping for a repeat of the brilliance he showcased during that unforgettable debut Test at the Home of Cricket.
