Chris Woakes is unlikely to take further part in the ongoing fifth Test against India at The Oval after sustaining a shoulder injury on Day 1. The England all-rounder landed awkwardly while diving to save a boundary late on Thursday and was seen clutching his left shoulder in pain. He walked off the field with his arm in a sling and did not return. On Friday morning, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) confirmed that Woakes is expected to play no further part in the match, though he will continue to be monitored through the remainder of the Test. A final assessment will be made after the series ends. While the ECB statement did not fully rule out the possibility of Woakes batting, his current condition suggests it is highly unlikely unless the situation demands a one-handed or heavily restricted appearance, similar to Rishabh Pant’s brave innings on one foot in the fourth Test at Old Trafford.
As of now, England are preparing to continue without him, meaning they will have to rely on just three specialist bowlers for the rest of the game.
Poll
What do you expect from England’s bowling attack without Woakes?
His absence is a major blow to England, especially with the series hanging in the balance at 2-2. On a rain-hit Day 1, India posted 204 for 6 after being put under pressure by the seam-friendly conditions. Karun Nair led the resistance with an unbeaten 52 while Washington Sundar was on 19 at stumps. For England, Josh Tongue and Gus Atkinson picked up two wickets each.
