England is carefully orchestrating Jofra Archer's return to Test cricket ahead of the highly anticipated five-match series against India, scheduled from June to August 2025 as part of the 2025-2027 ICC World Test Championship.

Archer, who last played a Test match in February 2021, has been plagued by a series of elbow and back injuries, requiring a meticulously managed return to action. He was initially slated to participate in the ODI series against the West Indies but was ruled out due to a thumb injury sustained while playing for the Rajasthan Royals in the Indian Premier League (IPL). This injury also sidelined him from the England Lions' red-ball game against India A, further delaying his potential comeback.

Despite the setbacks, England remains optimistic about Archer's return during the India series. England selector Luke Wright announced that Archer is set to make his comeback for Sussex in their second XI fixtures, with the goal of playing in the County Championship match against Durham later in June. If Archer demonstrates his fitness and form in these matches, he could be available for selection for the second Test against India at Edgbaston.

"Jof's trucking along really well actually," said Wright. "The plan is for him to play a few second team games, loading up in the second team for Sussex. And then the idea for him is to play for Sussex against Durham during the first Test. So he'll play for Sussex if all things go well, and then if all things go well fingers crossed he should be available for the second Test."

Archer's possible return would provide a significant boost to England's seam bowling options, especially with Gus Atkinson sidelined due to a hamstring injury, which is expected to keep him out of the first two Tests against India.

England has announced a 14-member squad for the first Test against India, commencing on June 20, 2025, at Headingley. Ben Stokes will captain the team, which includes experienced players like Joe Root and Zak Crawley, along with young talents such as Shoaib Bashir, Jacob Bethell, and Jamie Smith. The pace attack will be supported by Chris Woakes and Josh Tongue.

India has also announced its 18-member squad for the Test series, led by Shubman Gill, with Rishabh Pant as his deputy. The squad features a mix of experienced players and promising youngsters.

The Test series will commence on June 20th in Leeds before moving to Birmingham for the second Test. Lord's will host the third Test, starting on July 10, 2025, followed by Old Trafford and Kennington Oval for the fourth and fifth Tests, respectively.

Archer's return would not only strengthen England's bowling attack but also add a potentially match-winning option to the squad, particularly with the Ashes series on the horizon. However, his availability hinges on his ability to prove his fitness and withstand the rigors of competitive cricket in the upcoming matches for Sussex.