Jofra Archer, who took over as the England team for his second Test against India, is “gambling,” says former captain Naserfsain.
Archer will be recalled to England after injuries lock him out of the Test team for the past four years.
He returned to first class cricket last Sunday when he played for Sussex. Sky Sports 10am (first ball 11am).
Former England captain Hussein said Sky Sports News: “Firstly, I have to say that it’s good news for Archer and the UK in that JOF must have gone through so many things with them. [elbow and back injuries]rehabilitation, pain, and the mental pain of constantly injured and making a comeback, so it’s great to see him back on the team. He hasn’t played Test matches in four years.
“Essentially, if you’re an English fan, be happy to watch Jofra Archer return to the red ball team.”
However, Hussein warned that his choice for the second test was dangerous. “I think this week is too risky, but that might have worked out very well. I don’t know Jofra Archer’s body. They may have worked out enough to say, ‘I’ll play you this week.’ He said.
“I think it’s a gamble worth taking. I don’t know if it’s worth taking this week. I’ll do it a week after the road.
“He just had a first class comeback for Sussex for four years this week and bowled 18 overs. When Archer fits perfectly, he’s absolutely at the box office. He has that raw pace.
He explained the factors under consideration. “They could have made three decisions with him. They’ll leave in Sussex and play another county championship game. I think they’ll play in Warwickshire on Sunday and choose him for the Lord for the next Test.
“Another option is to choose him and play him that might be done at Edbaston. Or choose him with a team, and every morning, every lunchtime, see all the tea after play and see him.
“What’s the rush we’ve been waiting so long? Surely, why not wait another week? Obviously they’re looking to the future too. It’s not just about Edgbaston and Lord’s and this series.
“Fast bowling is a tough job, and it is a risk, it is a risk they are willing to take and I think they have to take before winter.
Correct call?
For more accessible video players, use the Chrome browser
Sussex head coach Paul Farbrace says Jofra Archer is one of the best in the world and will give England a big chance if he returns to face India this summer
Another former captain, David Gower, thought Archer was in a hurry.
Gower said Sky Sports News: “You have to face the fact that he was injured, he is run, the elbow was awkward. He is playing one game for Sussex. When there were companions who have such a history of injuries, in my book you need to see him, play three or four games for Sussex, and make sure he is making sure he does what he does.
“There is also a saying that there is no need to change the winning side,” Gower added. “At this stage, we are not rushing Yohura.”
For more accessible video players, use the Chrome browser
Former England captain David Gower says he has sympathy for Jofra Archer, but admits that he hasn’t brought him back to fold for an English Test match
England vs India Test Series ☀☀️
All games in the UK and Ireland at 11am. Everything lives in Sky Sports
- First Test: England won with 5 wickets – Headingley
- Second test: Wednesday, July 2nd – Sunday, July 6th – Edbaston
- The third test: Thursday, July 10th – Monday, July 14th – Roads
- Fourth Test: Wednesday, July 23rd – Sunday, July 27th – Emirates Old Trafford
- The fifth test: Thursday, July 31st – Monday, August 4th – Kia Oval
