England head coach Brendon McCullum has delivered a promising update on Jofra Archer‘s fitness ahead of the second Test against New Zealand, raising hopes of the fast bowler’s return to red-ball cricket. While Archer is expected to be available for selection later this month, McCullum has cautioned that availability does not necessarily mean a place in the playing XI, with England keen to choose their attack according to conditions and form.

Brendon McCullum shares fitness update of Jofra Archer ahead of ENG vs NZ 2nd Test

Archer was unavailable for the first Test at Lord’s after England decided not to rush him back following his IPL commitments with Rajasthan Royals. The speedster has instead been following a workload-management program in Barbados as he builds towards a potential comeback. Providing an update after England’s victory in the series opener, McCullum sounded confident about Archer’s progress. The England coach also highlighted the trust the management has in Archer’s preparation process.

“We’re hopeful he will be available for the second Test; then we’ll work out conditions-wise where we’re at. He’s following a plan. We completely trust Jof. He’s shown us in the past what he does, which is get himself ready based on the plans we get together and come up with. He’s always turned up in the condition we wanted from him,” said McCullum in a statement.

Also READ: Ben Stokes and Gus Atkinson under investigation after nightclub incident following Lord’s Test win

Return to squad may not guarantee place in playing XI

Despite the positive update, McCullum made it clear that Archer’s reputation alone will not secure him a spot in the side. England are expected to assess the conditions at The Oval before finalising their bowling combination. The team management appears determined to select the attack best suited to the surface rather than making changes based solely on big names.

That approach is understandable considering the success of England’s seamers in the first Test. Gus Atkinson, Ollie Robinson and Josh Tongue dominated New Zealand’s batting line-up and shared 19 wickets between them during a comprehensive victory. McCullum also pointed to the growing competition among England’s fast bowlers, praising several players who were in contention for selection.

“Sonny Baker was close, as well. We thought if air-speed was going to be important and the pitch was going to be flat, he would be a viable option. Fish [Matthew Fisher] has been bowling beautifully, then you’ve got Jofra and Brydon Carse,” added McCullum.

Also WATCH: ENG vs NZ – Jacob Bethell grabs a spectacular catch to dismiss Devon Conway in Lord’s Test

For latest cricket news & updates, visit CricketTimes.com.