Ashes 2019 | Jofra Archer included in England's squad for first Test

It wasn't that long ago when a young Jofra Archer was handed the ball to bowl the Super Over for ICC World Cup 2019 hosts' England as they hoped to pull off a win against 2015 runner-ups New Zealand on home soil. The former West Indies U-19 pacer did enough to ensure that the Kiwis failed to cross the target as skipper Eoin Morgan laid hands on England's first World Cup trophy, that too, at Lord's. 

Now, after some much needed rest the youngster has been called up to the England Test team ahead of a challenging Ashes series against rivals - Australia. 

As per reports, Archer was included in England's 14-man squad that also saw Ben Stokes and Jos Buttler return to the setup after being rested for the victory against Ireland at Lord's. Despite the dismal batting performance in the first innings against the Irish, the England board will keep faith with a top three of Jason Roy, Rory Burns and Joe Denly against Aaron Finch-led Australia. 

Meanwhile, ECB chief selector Ed Smith added that the inclusion of a host of bowlers is a precautionary measure taken by the committee due to the small injury problems sustained by certain pacers. James Anderson, Stuart Broad, Olly Stone and Sam Curran are the fast-bowlers included in the squad. 

"Though it is unusual to select a squad of 14 for a home Test, there are compelling reasons to do so here. Several bowlers are recovering from injuries or niggles. In addition, some bowlers who played in the World Cup are being closely monitored to assess their preparation for Test match cricket.

"The wider circumstances - a successful home World Cup campaign followed so quickly by a home Ashes series - are unprecedented. It feels sensible to select an expanded squad and leave a number of bowling options open for the final team selection," Chief selector Ed Smith told Cribuzz reporters.