Michael Vaughan Urges Caution Over Jofra Archer’s Test Comeback

Archer's Test Return Under Watch as England Lead India Series 1-0

By DTD- On Jun 26, 2025

London (Sports Desk) – Former England captain Michael Vaughan has urged the England team management and Test skipper Ben Stokes to adopt a cautious approach regarding fast bowler Jofra Archer’s return to the Test arena, following his first red-ball outing in over four years.

Archer turned out for Sussex in a County Championship match against Durham earlier this week at Chester-le-Street, claiming 1 for 32 in 18 overs and scoring a composed 31 runs with the bat. The match ended in a draw, but marked a key milestone in the 29-year-old pacer’s ongoing recovery from long-term elbow and back injuries.

While his return has generated optimism among fans and cricketing circles, Vaughan advised against rushing Archer back into England’s Test squad solely based on one domestic appearance.

“The good thing is that Jofra is back in the equation — but I’d like to see him play another four-day game,” Vaughan told British media. “He hasn’t played the longer format for four years, so why, on the back of one game for Sussex, would you rush him back?”

Vaughan pointed out the stark difference in intensity between county cricket and the demands of Test cricket, particularly in a high-stakes series against India.

“We know the intensity of Test cricket is so different from county cricket. Let him play another four-day game,” he added, suggesting that Archer should feature in Sussex’s upcoming County Championship fixture against Warwickshire, beginning Sunday.

Vaughan’s views were supported by Paul Farbrace, head coach of Sussex, who praised Archer’s bowling performance but emphasized the importance of long-term fitness management.

“He bowled with good pace, good accuracy, and his body’s in good shape — which is fantastic,” Farbrace said. “We’d all love to see Jofra playing for England because he makes them a much better side, especially in big series. But let’s look after him and be careful.”

Farbrace also confirmed that Sussex and England’s medical team had already agreed on a carefully monitored workload for Archer, and his fitness would be reassessed after this match.

Archer has not played a Test match since February 2021, having faced repeated setbacks due to elbow and back issues. His potential return is being closely watched as England lead the five-match Test series against India 1-0, with the second Test set to begin on July 2 at Edgbaston.

With Archer considered a vital asset for England across all formats, both team officials and coaches appear committed to ensuring his return is handled with patience and precision to preserve his long-term career.