Ben Stokes’s decision to step down as England’s Test captain and retire from international cricket earlier this summer has left a significant void in the team’s leadership, particularly in his relationship with key bowler Jofra Archer. Stokes was widely regarded for his empathetic leadership style, which helped foster strong bonds with players like Archer, whose form often relies on support beyond the field.

Archer described the moment of Stokes’s retirement as a deeply emotional one, saying he not only lost a captain but a friend. Reflecting on their partnership, Stokes had noted the importance of spending time with Archer both on and off the field, aiming to understand the player as a person. Their connection was highlighted during notable performances, including a stand of 106 runs in Adelaide and the crucial Super Over of the 2019 World Cup final, where Stokes’s encouragement helped Archer deliver under intense pressure.

With Joe Root returning as England’s Test captain for a second tenure, starting with the upcoming Leeds Test against Pakistan, his ability to build a similarly strong rapport with Archer is seen as essential. Root’s previous captaincy term yielded mixed results in managing Archer, with some criticism directed at his handling of the bowler’s workload. Archer’s injury in 2021 followed a period perceived as heavy usage, while his recent outings under Root, such as the Oval Test against New Zealand, saw inconsistent deployment that drew scrutiny after costly moments in the field.

Archer’s form has improved since Stokes’s return, exemplified by a six-wicket haul in the Nottingham Test against New Zealand, earning him the player of the series accolade. Former England fast bowling coach Jon Lewis attributes Archer’s resurgence to sustained red-ball cricket, which has allowed him to rebuild rhythm and confidence after an extended injury layoff.

Despite this progress, analysts note some adjustments in Archer’s bowling action since his elbow surgery five years ago have impacted his effectiveness, particularly against right-handed batsmen. Changes in release point, partly due to increased bulk from rehabilitation, have made it more challenging for him to extract movement away from right-handers, rendering him more potent against left-handed opponents. This could prove advantageous against Pakistan, who are expected to field a predominantly left-handed top order.

England’s pace attack, featuring Archer alongside Gus Atkinson, Josh Tongue, and support from Ollie Robinson, Matt Fisher, and Sam Cook, is viewed as promising but lacks an established leader, a role previously filled with distinction by James Anderson. Archer, while capable of producing match-winning spells, is not typically seen as a vocal or consistent leader on the field, underscoring the need for Root to develop leadership within the bowling group.

Archer has openly acknowledged the mental challenges of Test cricket, highlighting the difficulty of maintaining focus during long fielding periods. This underscores the importance of captaincy in managing bowlers’ wellbeing and maintaining team morale throughout demanding matches.

England’s managing director Rob Key and the medical staff have been credited for their cautious approach in managing Archer’s return from injury, gradually reintegrating him into white-ball cricket before his Test comeback in 2024. This patient strategy extended to resting Archer from the first Test against New Zealand this summer to ensure adequate preparation time.

As England look to rebuild their Test team, the dynamics between Root and Archer will be closely watched. Root faces the task of not only optimizing Archer’s impact on the field but also cultivating the leadership qualities within the pace attack needed to sustain England’s competitiveness in the longer format.