Archer strikes on Test return as Bumrah bags five at Lord’s

Jofra Archer marked his return to Test cricket with an early breakthrough as England reduced India to 145-3 in reply to 387 on day two at Lord’s. Playing his first Test in over four years, Archer removed Yashasvi Jaiswal with his third ball, a 90 mph delivery edged to Harry Brook.

“The noise, the pure joy everyone has seeing him back in whites… it created a great atmosphere,” said Joe Root, who earlier hit his 37th Test century.

India captain Shubman Gill, prolific in the series, fell for 16 to Chris Woakes, while Ben Stokes dismissed Karun Nair. KL Rahul was unbeaten on 53 alongside Rishabh Pant at stumps.

Earlier, Jasprit Bumrah took 5-74, including a devastating burst removing Stokes, Root, and Woakes in seven balls. “Being on the honours board feels good,” Bumrah said.

Brydon Carse hit 56 to frustrate India, adding an 84-run stand with Jamie Smith, who made 51.

(Source: AFP)