Overview

• Archer has not featured in a Test since February 2021 after multiple injuries stalled his early career promise.
• His planned first-class outing for Sussex against Durham on Sunday follows delays caused by a broken thumb during his rehabilitation.
• England view his comeback as a key boost to their pace attack for the upcoming series against India and the subsequent Ashes tour of Australia.
• Stokes said Archer’s determination once led him to seek a one-off return against Zimbabwe, illustrating his eagerness to resume Test cricket.
• The England and Wales Cricket Board, working with Sussex, has devised a phased return strategy to ensure Archer’s long-term fitness.