England captain Ben Stokes has hailed Jofra Archer’s determination as the fast bowler makes his first international red-ball appearance in over four years in the third match of the ENG vs IND 2025 Test series, which started at Lord’s on Thursday.
Archer, who last played a Test for England in February 2021, earned his 14th cap in the longest format. The pacer’s comeback marks the end of a long, injury-disrupted spell that included multiple elbow surgeries and a stress fracture of the back since 2021.
“It’s great for English fans, but also for Jof,” Stokes said during the pre-match press conference. “It’s been a long time coming for him. The way in which he’s handled the injury setbacks over a period has been very commendable.”
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Archer was initially part of England’s plans for the first two Tests but had to sit out due to a right thumb injury sustained during IPL 2025. He returned to first-class cricket with Sussex last month and was subsequently cleared to lead England’s pace attack once again.
“The way he’s got himself back on the field playing cricket over a long period of time now – it’s exciting to have him back in the squad,” Stokes added.
Archer has played 13 Tests so far, picking up 42 wickets. His red-ball debut at Lord’s in 2019 during the Ashes series remains one of the memorable moments of his career, with him picking up five wickets over two innings.
Archer, who represents Rajasthan Royals in the IPL, featured in 12 matches during the 2025 season and picked up 11 wickets. He consistently bowled with high pace, clocking a top speed of 152.3 kmph against the Gujarat Titans in Ahmedabad.
The fourth and fifth Tests of the series are scheduled at Old Trafford (July 23–27) and The Oval (July 31–August 4), respectively.
