ENG vs IND 2025: ‘Jofra Archer is an X-factor player’ – Joe Root lauds the pacer

England’s star batsman Joe Root showered praise on Jofra Archer, calling him the team’s “X-factor” after a brilliant performance on his return to Test cricket against India at Lord’s. Making his comeback in the longer format after nearly four years, Archer made an immediate impact by dismissing India’s in-form opener Yashasvi Jaiswal with just his third delivery. Archer’s return added fresh energy and aggression to the England pace attack, and his early breakthrough set the tone for the English bowlers on the second day of the third Test.

Speaking to the media at the end of the day’s play, Root expressed his joy at seeing Archer back on the field in Test whites. “It was fantastic, wasn’t it? I was really pleased to see him back playing Test cricket,” Root said. “Taking wickets, making things happen – his influence in the team, both in the dressing room and on the field, is huge.” Root emphasized that Archer brings a special quality to the England lineup — something that not many players possess.

Jofra Archer has had a challenging few years, dealing with multiple injuries that kept him out of action and cast doubts over his future in red-ball cricket. But his return at Lord’s served as a reminder of the immense talent and potential he still holds. Root described Archer as a “match-winner,” someone who can turn the tide of a game with a single spell. “He is an X-factor player, and he has proven that for England in limited-overs cricket and in the IPL,” Root said. “In big matches, he comes in and does things that other players are not able to do. He proved that again today.”

Root also made an interesting comparison between Archer and India’s pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah. According to Root, Archer gives England what Bumrah gives India — a genuine game-changer. “It’s a bit like India turning to Jasprit Bumrah. He can do something different for you,” Root explained. “It’s great to see him so impressive and maintaining his momentum. There’s a lot more to come from him.”

England, led by captain Ben Stokes, ended the second day in a commanding position after dismantling India’s top order. Archer’s sharp pace and clever variations kept the Indian batters on the back foot. With conditions at Lord’s offering assistance to the seamers, Archer’s presence further strengthened England’s bowling attack, which also includes experienced campaigners like James Anderson and Ollie Robinson.

The third Test is crucial in the five-match Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy series, which is currently tied 1-1. England won the opening Test at Leeds by five wickets, while India bounced back in style at Edgbaston with a massive 336-run win. As the battle at Lord’s heats up, Archer’s form could be the difference-maker. With his raw pace, pinpoint accuracy, and mental toughness, the 29-year-old fast bowler appears to be hitting peak form again.

Root, one of England’s most experienced Test players, knows the value of having a bowler like Archer on his side. “Jofra lifts the team. You can see the reaction from the crowd, the energy on the field — it all changes when he’s bowling,” Root noted.

As England look to take the lead in the series, all eyes will be on Archer to continue his impressive comeback. For a team that has struggled with injury concerns and form slumps in recent months, Archer’s resurgence is a welcome boost. And if Root’s words are any indication, England believe that their X-factor is well and truly back — and ready to shine on the biggest stage once again.