After a four-year absence due to persistent injuries and prolonged rehabilitation sessions, Jofra Archer finally returned to England's Test team. For the second Test against India at Edgbaston, which begins on July 2, England's 16-man squad includes the pacer, who last participated in a Test in 2021.

Just last week, the 29-year-old returned to first-class cricket for Sussex, bowling 18 overs, and he is now included in England's red-ball strategy. Although the recall provides some respite for both the team and its supporters, there are still doubts as to whether Archer should have been included in the lineup this soon.

Former England captain Nasser Hussain told Sky Sports News, "First of all, you have to say it's good news for Archer and England that Jof must have gone through so much with those [elbow and back injuries], the rehab, the pain, the mental torment of continually getting injured and making comebacks, so it's great to see him back in the squad; he hasn't played a Test match for four years."

"Fundamentally, if you're an England supporter, you should be glad to see Jofra Archer return to a red ball squad," Hussain said.

Nonetheless, caution tempers the thrill of his return. Given Archer's recent comeback from injury, Hussain claimed that it may be too soon to pick him for the second Test.

"This week, in my opinion, it's too risky, but it might have turned out so well that they say, 'we'll play you this week,' which I don't know because I don't know Jofra Archer's body." The question then becomes, whom do you leave out?" he stated.

"I do believe that the risk is worth taking, but I'm not sure if it's worth taking it this week. At Lord's, I would do it a week later.

What's the rush, Nasser asks?

According to Hussain, England has three options when it comes to Archer's inclusion: retain him at Sussex to increase his overs, select him for Edgbaston, or add him to the team to monitor his development without giving him an immediate role.

“The issue with [playing him at Lord’s] is then he’ll have played three games in three weeks, that Lord’s Test his third having not played for four years,” Hussain said, adding, “What is the hurry when we’ve waited so long? Why not wait another week just to make sure?”

England will be focused on the future, including the Ashes series and upcoming trips. "It's difficult and dangerous to bowl quickly." They're willing to take the chance, and in my opinion, they have to see if Jofra can make it through at least two of the next four Test games before the winter.

Read Also: Endurance is Key: PV Sindhu Prepares for a Resilient Comeback

Get the latest Bollywood entertainment news, trending celebrity news, latest celebrity news, new movie reviews, latest entertainment news, latest Bollywood news, and Bollywood celebrity fashion & style updates!

HOW DID YOU LIKE THIS ARTICLE? CHOOSE YOUR EMOTICON!