Jofra Archer’s Return to Test Cricket Welcomed by India’s Rishabh Pant Ahead of Lord’s Showdown

After being away from Test cricket for over four years, Jofra Archer’s comeback has grabbed everyone’s attention — including India’s vice-captain Rishabh Pant, who’s excited to face him again. Speaking ahead of the third Test at the iconic Lord’s, Pant called Archer’s return “a good contest” but emphasized that his main focus is always on giving his best for the team.

“Whenever I step out on the field, I just enjoy the game and try to give 100 percent. It’s not really about any one player,” Pant said during Wednesday’s pre-match press conference. “Yes, it’s going to be a good contest, especially since he’s coming back after a long break. But I’m happy to see him back.”

India is riding high on confidence after their dominant 336-run win over England in the second Test at Edgbaston. Pant has been key to India’s strong form, scoring 342 runs so far in the series at an impressive average of 85.50 — including a quick 65 off just 57 balls in the last match.

Interestingly, Archer’s last Test appearance was also against India during their 2021 tour, where he made an immediate impact. In the opening Test of that series, Archer’s fiery bowling saw early wickets of Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill, helping England set the tone for their win in Chennai. Archer has dismissed Gill twice in two matches, and he’ll be eager to make a similar mark at Lord’s.

England have made just one change to their playing XI after their heavy loss at Edgbaston, bringing Archer back in. Captain Ben Stokes and the team hope the 30-year-old fast bowler will add some much-needed firepower to a bowling attack that’s struggled for wickets.

Lord’s holds a special place for Archer — it’s where he bowled the Super Over that won England the 2019 World Cup and where he made his memorable Test debut that same summer.