Ashes 2019: “I’m Probably More Ready Than I Have Ever Been”: Jofra Archer

England had lost their first Ashes Test at Edgbaston by 251 runs to their arch-rival Australia. However, there key pacer James Anderson has also been ruled out due to a calf injury. And his injury opened the door for youngster Jofra Archer who is going to make his Test debut at Lord’s on August 14. Although he was also suffering from a side strain, he said that he is fully recovered now. Jofra Archer had a successful ICC World Cup campaign where he picked up the highest number of wickets from his side.

“I’m probably more ready than I have ever been. I bowled 50 overs in one game for Sussex which I think was past the overs they told me to bowl, it was good practice,” Jofra Archer said to the reporters. “(My fitness) has never been better. (The side strain) just needed to settle and we couldn’t get that gap in the World Cup. After that, it settled in a matter of days.”

“Don’t expect any miracles, I can only come in and do what I can and give my best. I can’t work miracles but I will try to,” he added.

However, his inclusion made Australia rethink on their strategy as Australia coach Justin Langer had said that the key to dealing with Archer is to “keep wearing him down”.

“I think Justin Langer has another think coming,” said Jofra Archer. “I’ve played a lot more red-ball cricket than I have white-ball cricket. I do think it’s my preferred format anyway. I personally believe in test cricket you get a lot more opportunities to redeem yourself.”

“If it’s 50 overs, when you don’t have a good 10-overs, that’s it. You have ample chances do it in red-ball games. Test cricket is pretty much the same as first-class — know what your strengths are and stick to them,” added the pacer.

The second Ashes Test will be interesting to see whether Australia will keep their momentum on or England will bounce back.