England's fast bowler, Jofra Archer, has expressed his desire to participate in the 2025-26 Ashes series in Australia as he plans his return to Test cricket. Archer has been absent from the Test arena since February 2021 due to persistent back and elbow injuries over the past three years.
However, his recent full participation in England's T20 World Cup campaign has raised hopes that his injury woes may be behind him. Archer's fast bowling, particularly effective on Australia's traditionally bouncy pitches, would be a significant asset to England's captain, Ben Stokes, in their quest to reclaim the Ashes.
Despite this, England will continue to manage Archer's workload carefully, with no plans for him to play red-ball cricket in 2024. Archer mentioned that he intends to spend the remainder of this year, ensuring that playing in the next Ashes series remains a possibility. He also expressed frustration with online speculation about his fitness, stating that he wants to prove the doubters wrong and is eager to be part of another Ashes series.
Archer was a standout performer in England's 2019 World Cup-winning squad, famously bowling the decisive super over in the final against New Zealand. Later that year, he made an impactful Ashes debut at Lord's, where his aggressive bowling style led to Australian batsman Steve Smith being withdrawn due to a concussion.
Rob Key, England's managing director, suggested in April that Archer could aim for a return in next year's home Test series against India. During the BBC TV coverage of The Hundred's opening match, Archer indicated his plan to play first-class cricket early next summer, building up his workload in preparation for a potential Test cricket comeback.
Archer is set to make his debut in The Hundred for the Southern Brave against London Spirit in Southampton. He expressed his excitement about playing again, mentioning his positive feelings and his intention to enjoy this phase of white-ball cricket.