"Want to spend the rest of the year proving some people wrong" - Jofra Archer keen to play in the 2025-26 Ashes
England pacer Jofra Archer has underlined his strong desire to feature in the 2025-26 Ashes next year. The 29-year-old insists he will do everything to play in the Ashes at least a possibility.
Archer returned to England colors in the 2024 T20 World Cup, his first international appearance since March 2023. However, he hasn't played Test cricket in over three years, and the England management has stated that they don't wish to rush him back to the format, given its demanding nature.
Speaking to reporters, Archer explained he is tired of reading comments about him that he might be injured for a long time again. He was quoted as saying by BBC Sport:
"I am going to use the rest of this year to make sure that is at least a possibility. I'm tired of going on Instagram and seeing posts saying 'he's going to be on the physio's bed in the next two weeks' and stuff like that. I want to spend the rest of the year proving some people wrong and hopefully play in another Ashes."
England Test captain Ben Stokes had also recently revealed how Archer was desperate to play in the traditional format. Despite feeling glad about the pacer's comeback, Stokes said he doesn't want to be 'giddy' too soon.
"I'll probably play a few of those" - Jofra Archer on the County Championship next year
Archer further stated he is looking forward to playing in the County Championship fixtures next year to be ready for Test cricket.
"I will manage myself as best as possible and get myself [through] until at least maybe the start of the Championship next year. I'll probably play a few of those [games] and keep building up and getting that workload ready for Test cricket," he said in the same interview.
At the same time, Archer remains excited for his The Hundred debut this year.
"I am feeling good and want to get some games in. I am going to enjoy this little phase of some white-ball cricket," he added.
The right-arm speedster will feature for the Southern Brave against the London Spirit when the two sides lock horns on Wednesday, July 24.