ENG vs IND 2025: 'Going to be good contest' - Rishabh Pant reacts to facing Jofra Archer at Lord’s

As the Anderson–Tendulkar Trophy between England and India heads to the iconic Lord’s Cricket Ground for the third Test from Thursday, all eyes are on ace pacer Jofra Archer’s return to the red-ball format. After four and a half years away from Test cricket, Archer's comeback has grabbed significant headlines, and India’s vice-captain Rishabh Pant is ready to take up the challenge.

Archer, whose last Test appearance came in early 2021, has been affected by consistent elbow and back injuries that disturbed his red-ball career. The home team have now turned to their ace speedster following a 336-run defeat to India in the second Test at Edgbaston. Notably, Archer replaces Josh Tongue in the XI.

The iconic venue has been special for Barbados-born. It was here in 2019 that Archer made his Test debut and also bowled the Super Over that sealed England's ODI World Cup win. Speaking on the eve of the match, Pant spoke about Archer’s comeback and looked forward to facing him.

“Personally, whenever I step on the field, I always enjoy my cricket and try to give my 200%. Not particularly any about any individual, just being on the field. Yes, it’s going to be a good contest always because he’s also coming back after a long break. Let’s see how it goes. Yes, I’m happy he’s back," he said at the pre-match press conference.

Pant reacts to ENG's possible game plan change at Lord's

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Pant reacts to ENG's possible game plan change at Lord's

Jasprit Bumrah to return to India's XI for Lord's Test

Meanwhile, the Indian vice-captain has had a brilliant series so far, scoring 342 runs in the series at an average of 85.50, including twin centuries in the first Test. His knock of 65 off 57 balls in the second Test played a big role in the visitors' win.

India’s comprehensive win at Edgbaston has leveled the series 1-1. With Jasprit Bumrah expected to return to the playing XI, India looks in a great position. On the other hand, England’s bowling attack will hope Archer can deliver early breakthroughs.