For the Edgbaston Test, England will be missing the one player who posed the biggest threat to Team India. Yes, we’re talking about Jofra Archer. Having made a return to England’s Test team after four years, Archer was almost certain to feature in the playing XI. However, when England’s final playing XI was announced, his name was missing. Let’s find out why Archer is not playing this match.
🚨 NO JOFRA ARCHER IN PLAYING XI IN 2ND TEST 🚨
– Jofra Archer backs in test cricket after 4 years, but not part of Playing XI in 2nd test. pic.twitter.com/LL2uhWclop---Advertisement---— VIKAS (@Vikas662005) June 30, 2025
Why Jofra Archer is not playing the Edgbaston Test
England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) reported that Jofra Archer was absent from the practice session as he had to attend a family emergency. He was hence left out of the playing XI. He was also quoted as saying that he can join the team on July 1 (Tuesday).
Also Read: England Reveals Playing XI For The Edgbaston Test Against India
Jofra Archer back after 4 years, but no replacement in England’s playing XI
Jofra Archer is famous worldwide for his speed, bowling at a rate of 145–150 km/h consistently. He has returned to the Test squad after four years, and his previous Test match was against India. England has entered the second Test with the same eleven that won in Leeds, though.
Archer’s Test record against India
Jofra Archer’s record on home soil is not to be underestimated. He has picked 30 wickets in 8 Tests so far in his career. Facing India, he has played 2 Tests and taken 4 wickets. These statistics indicate that he is a lethal bowler, particularly on home soil. That is why his non-inclusion in the playing XI comes as a relief for the Gill-led Indian team.
Archer most likely to feature in the Lord’s Test
Though Archer misses the second Test, he is bound to feature in the third Test at the legendary Lord’s Cricket Ground from July 10 to 14. Team India will have to prepare well for that game, not only to take runs but also to combat the threat of Jofra Archer’s speed.
Head-to-head: Who has the upper hand?
England is leading the Test series at present 1-0, having triumphed in the first match by 5 wickets. The Edgbaston Test will be the 138th between India and England. In the last 137 Tests, India has been victorious 35 times, and England 52 times. The remaining 50 Tests ended in draws. These figures quite evidently affirm that England dominated the earlier contests.
