England banked on pace as their key weapon in Pakistan, but their strategy backfired. Other teams found success with a mix of angles and left-arm options, while England’s one-dimensional right-arm attack struggled. Jos Buttler’s side finished last in the Champions Trophy group stage, failing to register a single point.
The idea behind England’s approach wasn’t baseless. Data from the 2023 World Cup in India indicated that teams delivering the highest percentage of balls above 84mph India (68%) and Australia (61%) had the most success. England, ranking seventh with just 33% of their deliveries exceeding this mark, finished in the same lowly position overall. However, raw pace alone wasn’t enough. Batters, accustomed to high-speed deliveries in training, handled it well. Accuracy and movement particularly seam over swing proved more effective. England’s fast bowlers were the quickest in the group stage but recorded the worst economy rate (7.2 runs per over) and the second-worst average (59.11), just ahead of Pakistan.
The tournament also left England dealing with fresh injury concerns. Brydon Carse exited with a toe infection, while Mark Wood’s left knee issue will require specialist attention. With upcoming marquee Test series against India and Australia, these setbacks reinforced Ben Stokes’ desire to have at least eight pace options at his disposal.
A key question now is whether Jofra Archer will be one of them. Archer, playing his first major international tournament since 2021, showed glimpses of his best despite losing some movement away from right-handers. He managed six wickets, all with the new ball, and a switch to the red Dukes and Kookaburra could work in his favor in Test cricket.
Head coach Brendon McCullum acknowledged Archer’s progress, highlighting his increasing workload and consistent high pace. He emphasized the importance of managing Archer’s return carefully, recognizing his value to the squad. Conversations with players about their ambitions are expected, and Archer is likely to express a desire to play Test cricket this summer.
The initial plan was for Archer to play for Sussex in the County Championship in April and May as part of a structured return to Test fitness. However, complications arose when the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) ruled that players who skipped the 2024 IPL auction would be ineligible for the 2026 edition. Although Archer was still in recovery at the time, England’s request for an exemption was denied. As a result, he entered the auction and was signed by Rajasthan Royals for £1.18 million.
The IPL runs from March 22 to May 25, leaving little time for Archer to feature in Sussex’s early-season matches. The next available four-day games for Sussex begin on June 22, coinciding with the first Test against India. With his history of stress fractures, managing his workload remains a challenge.
Despite these hurdles, Archer’s potential impact is undeniable. His breakthrough Test summer six years ago, which saw him take 22 wickets at an average of 20 in the Ashes, remains a major reason why England continues to back him. While their pace strategy faltered in Pakistan, a fully fit Archer could yet provide the cutting edge they need against India and Australia.
