Chris Woakes Injury Worsens England's Fifth Test Woes
England suffered a major blow on Day 1 of the fifth Test against India at The Oval as veteran pacer Chris Woakes picked up a concerning shoulder injury. While diving to stop a boundary late in the day, the 36-year-old landed awkwardly and was seen leaving the field clutching his left arm in a sling.
Woakes, who has been England’s most consistent fast bowler across all five matches of the series, is now unlikely to feature in the rest of the game. Fellow seamer Gus Atkinson told BBC, “It doesn’t look great. I’ll be surprised if he takes any part in the game.”
Although an official medical update is expected soon, Woakes remained at the venue post-injury and received immediate care from the team’s medical staff. His absence will further weaken a pace unit already burdened by injuries and tight scheduling.
Depleted Pace Attack Puts Pressure on England’s Backup Bowlers
England’s bowling resources have already been stretched thin, with captain Ben Stokes missing the match due to his own shoulder problem. Fast bowlers Jofra Archer and Brydon Carse were also rested for the series finale, making Woakes the only pacer to have featured in all five matches—until now.
On Day 1, Woakes had managed a key breakthrough by dismissing KL Rahul with a sharp delivery that moved in off the pitch. However, his injury has now forced England to rely heavily on the trio of Gus Atkinson, Josh Tongue, and Jamie Overton for the rest of the Test.
The timing of the injury is particularly worrying for Woakes, who has faced challenges abroad throughout his career. With his age and fitness now under scrutiny, this setback may impact his chances of being selected for England’s Ashes squad later this year.
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