Archer sets sights on Test return

England fast bowler Jofra Archer is aiming to make a comeback to Test cricket for the 2025-26 Ashes series in Australia. The 29-year-old has been out of the Test scene since February 2021 due to persistent back and elbow injuries over the past three years.

Archer’s full participation in England’s recent T20 World Cup campaign has sparked hope that his injury issues might finally be resolved.

Speaking to BBC Sport, Archer expressed his determination to return to Test cricket.

“I am going to use the rest of this year to make sure that (playing in the next Ashes) is at least a possibility. I’m tired of going on Instagram and seeing posts saying he’s going to be on the physio’s bed in the next two weeks’ and stuff like that. I want to spend the rest of the year proving some people wrong and hopefully play in another Ashes,” Archer said.

Archer made a significant impact during England’s 2019 World Cup-winning campaign, bowling the decisive super over in the final against New Zealand. He also made his Ashes debut at Lord’s later that summer.

England’s managing director, Rob Key, indicated that a realistic target for Archer’s return to Test cricket is the home series against India in 2025.

Archer, echoed this sentiment, expressing his intention to play first-class cricket early next summer.

“I will manage myself as best as possible and get myself (through) until at least maybe, the start of the Championship next year. I’ll probably play a few of those (games) and keep building up and getting that workload ready for Test cricket,” he further added.

Archer is set to make his much-anticipated debut in The Hundred when the Southern Brave take on London Spirit in Southampton on Wednesday.