Archer Test comeback is Key point

JOFRA Archer has been backed to hit the ground running if the fast bowler makes his much-anticipated Test return for England against India in the next fortnight.

- By DAVID CHARLESWORTH

Archer is in England’s squad for the second Test at Edgbaston, starting next Wednesday, despite only making his first-class comeback this week after a four-year absence following repeated injury setbacks.

He sent down 18 overs across four spells at Durham, bowling economically and at high pace in taking one for 32, but his coach at Sussex, Paul Farbrace, feels Archer still needs more time in county cricket.

Rob Key, England’s managing director of men’s cricket, insists they are not taking a gamble with Archer's fitness as they weigh up whether to play him at Edgbaston or at Lord’s for the third Test.