England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) managing director Rob Key recently discussed the prospect of Jofra Archer playing in the second Test match against India in Edgbaston, Birmingham. Archer, who just made his first-class cricket comeback by playing for Sussex in the County Championship, has been included to England's team.

After four years away from the Test team, Archer made his comeback against India in 2021. Rob Key was recently questioned about the speedster's fitness to participate in the second Test match against India. He might play in at least one of the next two Test matches, according to the ECB managing director, who also hinted that he might be the first player to bowl in Birmingham.

“I would imagine [that he will play at least one of the next two Tests]. As I stand here now, that's where it's heading, but who knows? He could bowl the first ball of the [Edgbaston] Test. All options are available,” Key told Sky Sports.

In addition, Key disclosed that Archer might return to play the final two games for Sussex if the team's management determines he is not yet prepared for Test cricket.

“Yeah, so if he's not, there's a chance he can go back and play the last couple of games of the championship if we feel that's the best thing for him. It might be the case even if he doesn't play at Edgbaston that having him in and around is the best thing. But then he could walk out there and bowl the first ball of the test match. Who knows? All options are available,” he added.

As part of his red-ball comeback, Archer scored 31 (34), while also taking out 1/32 in 18 overs. The next game for Sussex is against Warwickshire in Hove on June 29. The 30-year-old has taken four wickets at an average of 30.50 in two Test matches for India. Given that Archer is recovering from a number of ailments, a number of specialists have cautioned against pushing him too soon into Test matches. It is unclear if he will be selected for the second Test, which is scheduled to start in Birmingham on July 2.