Jofra Archer's comeback to Test cricket after more than four years away from the format has grabbed the attention of the whole cricketing community, and India vice-captain Rishabh Pant has greeted it with open arms. On the eve of the third Test at Lord's, Pant described Archer's return as "a good contest" but emphasized that, as always, his priority is to perform at his best for the squad.

"For me, I simply love my cricket and strive to give my all every time I set foot on the pitch. It's not really about anybody in particular. Because he's also coming after a lengthy hiatus, yes, it's going to be a good match. However, I'm glad he's back, Pant stated during the pre-game press conference on Wednesday.

The remark coincides with India's high level of confidence following their 336-run victory over England in the second Test at Edgbaston. In India's comeback, Pant himself has been essential, scoring 342 runs at an average of 85.50 throughout the series, including a lightning-fast 65 off just 57 balls in the second Test.

In the 2021 trip, which was also against India, Archer made his final Test cricket debut, making an immediate impression. He established the tone for England's victory in Chennai in the first Test of that series by dismissing Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill early in a harsh opening over. At Lord's, Archer will be aiming for a similar effect, having already dismissed Gill twice in as many games.

Archer considers Lord's to be a unique location

After their crushing loss at Edgbaston, England has made just one alteration, bringing Archer into the XI. The team of Ben Stokes is hoping the 30-year-old speedster will add some bite to a bowling attack that has been toiling away without producing any results.

In addition to being the location of Archer's memorable Test debut and well-known Super Over in England's 2019 World Cup victory, Lord's holds a special place in his heart.

The series is now tied 1-1 as India approaches the Lord's Test, and the battle between Pant and Archer may be one of the matchups that decide what is expected to be a fierce third Test in the series.

Read Also: India Calls Back Excluded Fast Bowler Before Lord’s Test; Bowls Intensive Nets Spell to Captain Shubman Gill

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