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Jofra Archer should not play Oval Test, Gus Atkinson can replace him: Stuart Broad

Jofra Archer should not play Oval Test, Gus Atkinson can replace him: Stuart Broad

India Today28-07-2025
Former England pacer Stuart Broad has called for Jofra Archer to be rested for the fifth and final Test against India at the Kia Oval, warning that the injury-prone fast bowler should not be pushed too hard after back-to-back appearances. Broad believes Gus Atkinson, who is yet to feature in the series, should be given the nod for the decider, with England leading 2-1.advertisementArcher made a highly anticipated return to Test cricket in the third match at Lord's, picking up five wickets across both innings. He featured again in the fourth Test in Manchester, where India staged a resilient comeback on the final day to earn a draw. Shubman Gill (103), Ravindra Jadeja (107 not out), and Washington Sundar (101 not out) all struck centuries as India batted through the final day after starting their second innings 311 runs behind.The result means India can still level the series in the Oval Test, but with the Ashes in Australia just four months away, Broad has cautioned against overworking Archer, who has a lengthy injury history, particularly with his elbow and back. "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."
Instead, Broad is backing Atkinson to make his mark. "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.Broad also raised concerns over the physical toll the series has taken on England's fast bowlers. "[Brydon] Carse looked knackered in the fourth Test. He's been a trier and given absolutely everything, but it looks like his legs have gone. So Atkinson gets the nod," he added.Josh Tongue, who impressed earlier in the series, and fast-bowling all-rounder Jamie Overton - recalled for the first time since his debut in 2022 - are also part of the 15-man squad for the Oval Test. With skipper Ben Stokes battling cramp and other minor niggles, England's bowling options could be under increased scrutiny heading into the decider.While the temptation to go all out for a series win is high, Broad stressed that managing Archer's return with caution is crucial. "This is a big Test, but so is the Ashes. England must think long-term. Pushing Jofra now could come at a serious cost later."The fifth Test gets underway on Thursday at the Kia Oval.- EndsYou May Also Like
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