England should save Archer for third Test, urges Farbrace

The Sussex head coach, Paul Farbrace, says he would not pick Jofra Archer for next week's second Test against India, warning that one match bowling with the red ball for the first time in four years may not be enough preparation.

- Tanya Aldred

"I would be definitely sticking with Chris Woakes for Edgbaston because he knows the pitch inside out," the former England assistant coach said. "Why change the team? They've just won the Test at Headingley. They've set themselves up nicely for the series.

"If I was in their situation, my honest answer would be that I would save him for the third Test match. You have to be careful that he's only bowled 18 overs of red-ball cricket."

Whether or not England decide they need to boost their firepower before Edgbaston will depend somewhat on their assessment of Archer at the end of the championship game.

"When I'm asked," said Farbrace, "I'll report back that he looks in great rhythm, he bowled very nicely.