England likely to recall Archer and Atkinson after heavy defeat against India

England set to recall Jofra Archer and Gus Atkinson for the third Test against India at Lord’s after suffering a humbling 336‑run defeat in the second Test at Edgbaston.

Gus Atkinson, who had been sidelined since May due to a hamstring injury, was added to the squad following the Edgbaston loss. Jofra Archer, last seen in a Test in 2021, is anticipated to make a dramatic return in London after training with the squad in Birmingham.

Ben Stokes and coach Brendon McCullum indicated that Archer and Atkinson are in contention to replace either Brydon Carse or Josh Tongue, both of whom deserve rest after enduring heavy workloads.

England’s seam trio—Woakes, Carse, Tongue—bowled over 234 overs but failed to generate enough threats, while India’s Akash Deep and Siraj capitalized with masterful performances.

Stokes admitted that electing to bowl first was a miscalculated decision, with the pitch playing better than expected for India as the game wore on.

Strategic changes: What this recalls bring

1. Renewed pace and explosiveness – Archer’s record-breaking debut at Lord’s (5 wickets in 2019 Ashes) and Atkinson’s swing ability introduce aggressive dynamics up front.
    
2. Bowling depth & freshness – After two taxing Tests, England need stronger rotation and stamina. Atkinson’s fitness return and Archer’s pace offer fresh legs.
    
3. Morale and psychological boost – Bringing Archer back from four years of injury sends a strong message of intent and ambition.

Archer’s comeback hinges on workload management; despite missing a full county season, he's deemed ready for immediate Test impact. Atkinson’s performance in the one-off Test debut (5-for at Lord’s against West Indies) sets expectations for a strong showing .

England will push for a more dynamic pitch at Lord’s—pacy, bouncy, with sideways movement—to maximize their revamped attack.

England’s response to a 336-run defeat is swift and bold: they’re potentially recalling two impactful pacemen—Jofra Archer and Gus Atkinson—ahead of the third Test at Lord’s. With Archer’s pace prowess and Atkinson’s fresh energy, expect a revitalized seam attack designed to counter India’s formidable bowling. England must also balance rotation with pitch preparation to transform bowling intent into Test match success.