After a heavy defeat against India at Edgbaston, the England cricket team is eager to bounce back in the third Test starting on July 10 at the iconic Lord’s ground. Captain Ben Stokes and coach Brendon McCullum have announced the playing XI with a significant change—star fast bowler Jofra Archer returns to Test cricket after nearly 4 years and 5 months.

Jofra Archer’s Comeback
Archer, who last played a Test against India in Ahmedabad in February 2021, has been chosen over young pacer Josh Tongue. Although Tongue has been the highest wicket-taker in the series so far with 11 wickets, concerns over his inconsistent line and length and expensive spells influenced the team’s decision to drop him for this match.

Other Team Details
Alongside Archer’s return, Gus Atkinson was also considered but remains sidelined due to an injury he sustained in May. The management is banking on Archer’s pace and ability to generate bounce to challenge India at Lord’s.

England’s Playing XI for Lord’s Test:
Ben Stokes (captain), Ben Duckett, Zak Crawley, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Jamie Smith, Chris Woakes, Brydon Carse, Jofra Archer, Shoaib Bashir

England aims to use this strengthened bowling lineup to reclaim the series lead and make a strong statement on home soil.