After years of injury setbacks and uncertainty, Jofra Archer is not just back on the field—he’s back with purpose.
His performance at Lord’s during England’s recent win over India was a powerful reminder of what he brings to the team.
Now, he’s not only ready for the rest of the series but already has one eye firmly set on the Ashes tour this winter.
Archer Declares Himself Fit for the Final Two India Tests
Fresh from his return to Test cricket after a four-and-a-half-year absence, Archer is feeling confident and eager to keep going.
He’s made it clear he wants to play in both of England’s remaining Tests against India, starting with the next match at Old Trafford.
“If they let me, I’m good to go,” Archer said. “I don’t want to lose this series.
I told Keysy [Rob Key] I wanted to be part of the Test summer and also the Ashes. I’ve already ticked one box, and now I’ll do whatever it takes to be on that flight to Australia in November.”
His numbers at Lord’s certainly back him up—5 wickets from 39.2 overs, including twice removing the dangerous Yashasvi Jaiswal and also dismissing Rishabh Pant.
Not bad for someone returning after such a long break.
England Turn to Liam Dawson as Bashir Sidelined by Injury
While Archer’s return is a huge boost, England are facing a setback elsewher.
Spinner Shoaib Bashir has been ruled out of the final two Tests due to a broke finger.
Stepping in is Hampshire all-rounder Liam Dawson, who’s been quietly building an impressive case for an international return.
Dawson hasn’t played Test cricket since 2017, but he’s been making waves in the County Championship, with 124 wickets and seven centuries since the start of 2023.
His left-arm spin and handy batting make him a reliable, all-round option.
Dawson Impresses with Match-Winning T20 Performance
Dawson recently reminded everyone of his quality during a T20 match against the West Indies in June, where he grabbed 4-20—his first England appearance in three years. That showing didn’t go unnoticed.
Former England captain and current Mail Sport columnist Nasser Hussain called Dawson a “must-pick” for the 2026 T20 World Cup.
“People have been calling for his return for years,” Hussain told Sky Sports.
“He’s been consistently brilliant for Hampshire and around the world in franchise cricket.”
What sets Dawson apart, according to Hussain, is his batter’s mindset.
“He thinks like a batter, which helps him outfox them.
He changes pace smartly, bowls quickly, and knows when to toss one up.
That performance was a masterclass in left-arm spin.”
With India Series Still Alive, England Look to Experience and Firepower
With two crucial Tests still to come—at Old Trafford and The Oval—England are relying on a blend of returning firepower and reliable experience.
Archer is hungry, fit, and already thinking about the long game.
Dawson, on the other hand, brings maturity, control, and consistency to a squad hit by injury.
Whether it’s Archer gunning for Ashes redemption or Dawson quietly earning his place back on the international stage, England fans have every reason to be excited for what’s ahead.