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Jofra Archer Rejoins England Squad; Spotted Training Ahead Of 2nd Test vs India

Abhinav Tyagi

Jofra Archer Back in Training - (Source :@AadamHalath/X.com)Jofra Archer Back in Training - (Source :@AadamHalath/X.com)

In a significant development, star seamer Jofra Archer has rejoined the England squad ahead of the 2nd Test against India on July 2 at Edgbaston, Birmingham. Notably, the right-arm seamer missed a training session on Monday, June 30, after reports emerged that he had left the camp because of a family emergency.

In the latest events, England Cricket released pictures from the training ground on the eve of the 2nd Test, featuring Archer working hard in the nets. Nonetheless, the 30-year-old's Test return has been delayed, as the Three Lions have already announced their playing XI for the 2nd Test, and it does not include the Rajasthan Royals star.

England have named an unchanged XI, with Josh Tongue, Brydon Carse, and Chris Woakes continuing to lead the pace attack. Here is the complete playing XI:

Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes (c), Jamie Smith (wk), Chris Woakes, Brydon Carse, Josh Tongue, Shoaib Bashir.

Why Was Archer Out of the 2nd Test vs India?

There has been no official explanation from the ECB regarding Archer's omission from the playing XI or his absence from the training session. However, a medical emergency appears unlikely, as Archer returned to training a day after his absence and looked in good spirits.

It is worth noting that Archer was set to return to the playing XI after four years. He was not part of the squad initially due to a thumb injury but recovered and joined the side for the 2nd Test after missing the first.

Can England Change Their Playing XI to Include Archer?

England officially named their playing XI on Monday, June 30. However, under ICC regulations, teams can make changes to their XI up until the list is submitted to the match referee before the toss. After the toss and official submission, changes are only permitted in the case of a serious injury, with approval from the match referee.

As of now, England have time until the toss on match day to make any amendments to their playing XI. Once the toss takes place, no further changes can be made except for approved injury replacements.