Former England captain Joe Root has hailed Jofra Archer as the team’s X-factor following the pacer’s impacting return to Test cricket against India in the third Test at Lord’s.

Archer made his first Test appearance in four years and immediately made a statement. He struck with only his third delivery, dismissing Indian opener Yashasvi Jaiswal with a crisp leg-stump delivery that took the leading edge and sailed to the slip cordon. He attained speeds in the upper 140s (kph) and made an unforgettable return to the red-ball format.

The ace England hitter was effusive in his appreciation for the 30-year-old speedster, who has had a number of ailments since breaking onto the international stage. He praised Archer as a unique match-winner capable of turning games around in short, explosive bursts, emphasising the importance of having such an impact player back on the team.

“It was classy, wasn’t it? Just genuine excitement at seeing him back in Test cricket. Taking that wicket, making things happen — the impact he has on the squad is immense in the dressing room and on the pitch’,

Joe Root remarked after the second day of play at Lord’s, according to India Today.

“He is an X-factor player, as evidenced by his performances in both white-ball cricket for England and the IPL. In huge games, he shows up and performs things that other players cannot. “He demonstrated that again today,” he said.

The Caribbean-born pacer’s wicket of Jaiswal was a key moment for England, setting the tone early in the innings. Root believes the speedster’s presence significantly strengthens the overall bowling unit and provides the team with a crucial edge in competitive conditions.

“One thing you will say about it is that he complements the rest of the attack. At different points throughout the game, they’re going to have to work together to take 20 wickets if we are to win this game. It’s a nice start for him — great to see him smiling, enjoying his cricket, and making a huge impact right at the start of the innings,” said Root.