England speedster Jofra Archer has sent a warning to Australia’s batters following his long-awaited Test return, declaring he will do “everything possible in my power” to feature in next summer’s Ashes series.
After a 1597-day hiatus from the game’s longest format, Archer starred in England’s thrilling 22-run victory over India at Lord’s, taking five wickets in an impressive return.
The 30-year-old’s dismissal of Indian wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant on day five proved a turning point in the contest, helping England taking a 2-1 lead in the five-match series.
“It was very hectic for a first Test back,” Archer told Sky Sports after the match.
“I bowled more overs than I thought I would.”
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Archer claimed 22 wickets at 20.27 during the 2019 Ashes, his maiden Test series, but he missed both of England’s previous two campaigns against Australia due to injury.
“It was a long time coming, a lot of rehab, a lot of training, but it’s moments like this that makes it all worth it,” Archer continued.
“It was a long journey and I was a bit emotional. I tried my best not to be but when I got the first wicket I think that all went out of the window. All the joy. The whole crowd gave me a huge lift.
“The hardest part has been playing cricket for the last year and a half and still having the training wheels on talking about workloads – bowl today, don’t bowl tomorrow.
“Sometimes you think you are ready but you never know until you do it. The safer way is the best way so I am not too fussed and this is surely worth the wait.”
Archer expressed his desire to play the final two Tests against India at Old Trafford and The Oval, also reiterating he wants to help England win back the coveted urn later this year.
“I can play the other two if they let me,” Archer said.
“I don’t want to lose this series. I said I wanted to play the Test summer and I wanted to play the Ashes.
“One tick is already there and I will do everything possible in my power to be on the plane to Australia in November.”
The fourth Test between England and India gets underway at Manchester’s Old Trafford on Wednesday, July 23.