Overview
- McCullum said on Monday that Jofra Archer is due back in England later this week and will be assessed in training before a final call on the second Test.
- Ollie Robinson and Gus Atkinson each took seven wickets and Josh Tongue took five at Lord’s, performances that strengthen their case to keep their places.
- Archer is normally an automatic pick when fit so his potential return creates a clear selection dilemma for the Oval match.
- Off-spinner Shoaib Bashir did not bowl at Lord’s and could be considered at the Kia Oval if improved batting conditions reduce seam help.
- England are managing workloads after Archer’s long IPL spell and McCullum has publicly backed Ben Stokes, who has moved to No.7 and is being given time to regain form as England aim to secure a 2-0 series lead.