By Michael Davey
Jofra Archer has made it clear that he wants to play the final two Tests against India after making a thrilling return to the five-day game during England’s 22-run win at Lord’s.
Shoaib Bashir, meanwhile, has been withdrawn from the squad after fracturing his finger on the third day of a hard-fought clash and will be replaced by Hampshire’s Liam Dawson.
The victory in London saw England take a 2-1 lead in the five-match series.
Archer ready for more
Fresh off a triumphant Test comeback, where he managed almost 40 overs and grabbed five wickets across two innings, Archer admits that he is desperate to continue with the national side in the wake of an injury-hit four years.
“I can play the other two [Tests] if they let me,” he told Sky Sports.
“I don’t want to lose this series. I told Keysy [ECB managing director Rob Key] that I wanted to play the Test summer and I wanted to play the Ashes.
“I think one tick is already there and I will do everything possible in my power to be on the plane in November.
“I think the mentality of the team under Baz [head coach Brendon McCullum] suits the way I like to play my cricket, so I just couldn’t wait to get back and actually do it.”
Archer routinely hit top speeds with the ball at Lord’s, leaving many impressed by his energy and commitment so soon after returning to action.
But the quick was just happy to play his part, saying: “I think everybody put their body on the line, so it’d be a bit bad if I didn’t as well.
“Most of the last day is a blur. It’s nice to bowl fast but getting wickets is the most important thing.”
READ MORE: Cricket news: Ben Stokes lauds ‘special’ Jofra Archer after England beat India in Lord’s thriller
Bashir replaced by Dawson
Spin bowler Bashir injured his left hand while fielding a Ravindra Jadeja low drive off his own bowling on day three and had to leave the field for treatment.
Although he eventually returned to the field on the fifth day to claim the match-winning wicket, Bashir has now been replaced by Dawson in the squad for the fourth Test at Old Trafford.
The 35-year-old was part of England’s 2019 World Cup–winning team but has only played three Tests in his career, with his last appearance coming in 2017 against South Africa.
“Liam Dawson deserves his call-up,” said England men’s national selector, Luke Wright.
“He has been in outstanding form in the County Championship and consistently puts in strong performances for Hampshire.”
The fourth Test between England and India starts on Wednesday, July 23.
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