Archer's England Return Looms: Broad and Buttler Back Pacer for India Test

Former England fast bowler Stuart Broad and current star Jos Buttler have both expressed strong support for the inclusion of Jofra Archer in the second Test against India. This comes after Archer was named in the squad for the Edgbaston match, potentially marking his return to Test cricket after a hiatus since February 2021.

Broad, speaking on the "For The Love of Cricket" podcast, suggested Archer's inclusion was imminent: "He (Jofra Archer) played for Sussex this week, has taken a couple of wickets and looks like he's building up. And all the rumors and talk around the press box is he comes in at Edgbaston and he plays."

Archer recently participated in a first-class match for Sussex against Durham, his first red-ball appearance in four years. Although he only secured one wicket, his rhythm and overall fitness were seen as positive indicators by the England team management. Video highlights of his return have also gained traction on social media.

Buttler echoed Broad's sentiments, expressing optimism about Archer's chances: "Hopefully he'll come through that game. He's playing up at Chester-le-Street unscathed. Looks like he's bowling well and he's actually put together a real bank of cricket."

Buttler also highlighted the potential benefit of Ben Stokes' availability as a bowler, which could help manage Archer's workload effectively.

Broad went even further, advocating for Archer's inclusion in the starting XI: "Yeah, I think I play him, you know, I think if it was my decision, I'd play him… He's got a bouncer that makes everyone jump. So I'd be really, I'd be tempted to play him and I think every England fan would be buzzing if you saw Jofra Archer's name on that team sheet."

Following their thrilling victory in Leeds, spearheaded by Ben Duckett and Jamie Smith, England currently lead the series 1-0. Archer’s pace and aggression could present a significant challenge to the Indian batting lineup in the upcoming match at Edgbaston.