England considers Jofra Archer for second NZ Test

England's cricket team faces a significant selection decision ahead of the second Test against New Zealand following a decisive 115-run victory at Lord's. Head coach Brendon McCullum confirmed the team is hopeful that fast bowler Jofra Archer will be available for the match, which begins on June 17 at The Oval.

Archer, who holds a central contract, was not considered for the series opener after a lengthy stint in the Indian Premier League and has been resting and bowling in his native Barbados. McCullum stated that a decision on Archer's availability will be made in the coming days, adding that the management fully trusts the 31-year-old to prepare himself according to their plans. Archer is due to return to England later this week and could be added to the squad.

His potential return creates a dilemma for England's selection panel. The pace attack of Ollie Robinson, Gus Atkinson, and Josh Tongue excelled in the seam-friendly conditions at Lord's, with Robinson and Atkinson taking seven wickets each and Tongue claiming five. All three are expected to feature again at The Oval, where England will aim to secure an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series.