Archer Eyes Playing Until 40 With England’s Pace Attack

LONDON: (News Desk) – England fast bowler Jofra Archer believes the depth of the team’s new-look pace attack could help him prolong his international career, joking that he might continue playing until the age of 40.

The ongoing three-Test series against Pakistan marks the first time Archer, Ollie Robinson, Josh Tongue and Gus Atkinson have played together for England.

The combination has already produced impressive results. Pakistan were bowled out for 171 and 135 in an innings defeat at Headingley last week before collapsing to just 110 in 38 overs on the second day at Lord’s on Friday. England ended the day 261 runs ahead.

Archer produced a hostile spell of fast bowling, claiming 3-26, although he felt his figures could have been even better. Robinson, who captains Archer at county side Sussex, was outstanding at the other end, taking 4-11 from 13 economical overs.

Speaking about the strength of England’s attack, the 31-year-old Archer said the workload was being shared effectively among the bowlers.

He explained that having several quality seamers means each bowler can attack at full intensity without being overworked. Archer, whose career has previously been disrupted by a series of injuries, said the support within the attack allows players to recover before returning to the action.

Archer also impressed with his pace on Friday, reaching 94 mph (151 kph) and averaging around 90.7 mph during a fierce opening spell. He dismissed Pakistan captain Shan Masood and repeatedly troubled debutant opener Azan Awais.

However, Archer jokingly dismissed the speed-gun readings, saying he had experienced occasions when he bowled faster without the technology reflecting it.

England resumed their second innings at 81-3, with opener Emilio Gay unbeaten on 30. However, forecasts of heavy rain on Saturday could disrupt England’s attempt to build an even larger lead in the second Test.