England head coach Brendon McCullum said he is hopeful Jofra Archer will be fit for the second Test at the Kia Oval after missing the Lord’s victory. Archer, who spent the IPL season in India, has been training in Barbados and could re‑join the squad on June 17. The first Test ended in a 115-run win for England, crucial selection.

McCullum also praised debutant Emilio Gay, who top‑scored with 57 from 95 balls on a tricky pitch. The left‑hander replaced the dropped Zak Crawley and displayed composure that McCullum described as “super‑impressive”. He noted Gay’s rapid adjustment from a “spinning” start to a calm, effective innings, suggesting a bright future. His innings also steadied England’s lower order and added crucial runs.

McCullum remains confident about Ben Stokes, who struggled with 12 and 0 at Lord’s but is showing signs of fluency returning. He believes Stokes’ experience will guide the tail and that his raw power remains a weapon. With Archer’s fitness and Gay’s emergence, England heads into the Oval series with a balanced attack and veteran bowler to lead the attack.