Stuart Broad, a former England pacer, has suggested that the fifth and final test against India at the Kia Oval must allow Jofra Archer some rest. Broad feels that Archer, who has an injury record, especially in the elbow and back, must not be overworked after playing consecutive Tests. In the third Test at Lord’s, Archer was recalled to the England team with success and took five wickets during the match in both innings and appeared in the fourth Test at Old Trafford.
“We can’t not have Archer for four years, bring him back, and then bowl him into the ground and not see him for another four years.” Broad’s comments come as England looks to seal the series 3-1. As the Ashes in Australia lie only four months away, Broad is conscious not to overwork Archer. Alternatively, Broad is supporting Gus Atkinson, who has not played a role in the show so far, to impress himself.
Stuart Broad calls for Jofra Archer to be rested
Broad feels that Atkinson should be allowed to show himself against the best competition. “I think Gus Atkinson has to play. I know he has not had any workload, but we need to see him. He hasn’t been really challenged against top-level opposition in Test cricket yet,” Broad said. It would have provided a platform for demonstrating skills by Atkinson, and he would have had a chance to make a claim to the future England teams.
The bowling format of England has already come under the spotlight as the skipper, Ben Stokes, is struggling with cramps and other such issues. The squad at the Oval Test includes the 15-man line-up, Josh Tongue, who impressed at an earlier score in the series, and fast-bowling all-rounder Jamie Overton.
The coaching staff will seek to maximize their choices to achieve the series win. With India having not yet given up, the decider at the Oval is going to be a thrilling match. The 2-1 lead by England means that India has to win in order to balance the series. The hosts will, however, be eager to seal the victory and not to have an edge-of-the-seat finish.
It will be a tough fight, and the team that best adjusts to the environment is bound to win. The choice of England on whether to call Archer or Atkinson will also be significant towards the result of the match.
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