After a frustrating four-year absence from first-class cricket due to persistent elbow and back injuries, Jofra Archer is on the cusp of a potential Test comeback for England against India. The 30-year-old speedster made his return to red-ball cricket with Sussex in their County Championship match against Durham which started on June 22nd, marking a significant step towards regaining his place in the national side.

Archer's inclusion in Sussex's traveling squad for the four-day fixture at Chester-le-Street, despite initial confusion and his omission from the originally announced 12-man squad, signals a positive turn in his recovery. The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) and Sussex later clarified his presence, easing concerns about another possible setback.

Since 2021, Archer has been limited to white-ball cricket for England, and recently participated in the 2025 IPL season with Rajasthan Royals. His last Test appearance was in February 2021. A scheduled red-ball return earlier this year with the England Lions against India A was unfortunately delayed after he suffered a thumb injury during the IPL.

England's captain, Ben Stokes, has openly acknowledged Archer's eagerness to wear the 'white shirt' again. He revealed that Archer would often text him out of the blue, expressing his desire to play. Stokes, however, emphasized the need for a cautious approach to avoid rushing his comeback.

England's pace bowling attack looked uninspiring in the first Test of the Anderson-Tendulkar series against India, particularly with the absence of both Archer and Mark Wood. India, led by Shubman Gill, capitalized on this, amassing 471 runs in their first innings. The potential inclusion of Archer would undoubtedly provide a significant boost to England's bowling firepower.

If Archer emerges unscathed from the County Championship match, he could be in contention for selection for the second Test against India at Edgbaston, commencing on July 2nd, or the third Test at Lord's, starting on July 10th.

Despite the optimism, Archer's fitness remains the primary concern. England's selector, Luke Wright, previously stated that Archer's ability to withstand the demands of the game for Sussex would be a key factor in considering him for the second Test.

Archer's return comes at a crucial time for England. With the Ashes series looming later in the year, building his match fitness and confidence against a formidable Indian side would be ideal preparation. A fully fit Archer would be a major asset for England, especially with 10 Tests scheduled in seven months against India and Australia.

In his first red-ball outing in more than four years, Archer contributed a quick-fire 31 off 34 balls for Sussex, which included three fours and one six. More importantly, he is expected to bowl on the second day, which will be a key indicator of his fitness and readiness for Test cricket.

The coming days will be crucial in determining whether Jofra Archer is ready to reclaim his place as a key figure in England's pace attack and reignite his Test career.