Injured Woakes expected to sit out remaining India Test match for England
In a significant blow to the English cricket team, all-rounder Chris Woakes has been ruled out of the remainder of the Rothesay Fifth Test at The Kia Oval due to a dislocated shoulder. The injury, sustained during the opening day of the match, is expected to keep him out of action for up to six months, effectively ruling him out of the Ashes tour of Australia in 2025.
Woakes, who has been a consistent performer in the series so far, taking 10 wickets in the preceding four Tests on generally flat pitches, was assessed by England's medical staff and found to be unable to continue his participation in the Test.
India, the opposing team, ended the day at 204-6, with Woakes' absence potentially providing an opportunity for the Indian batsmen to capitalise. The hosts will now be without their key pace bowler, as substitutes are only permitted to field, not bat or bowl.
The series, scheduled for seven weeks and five Tests, is currently tied at 1-1. With India needing to win the match to end the series at 2-2, the English team faces a challenging task without Woakes.
Mark Wood, another key pace bowler, is a long-term absentee, and Olly Stone is only just returning to fitness following a knee injury. The absence of Woakes and Wood leaves England's pace attack a man down, adding to the team's woes.
Ben Stokes, the leading wicket-taker this series, is also missing the series finale due to a shoulder injury. Jofra Archer and Brydon Carse were left out of the Oval match following their previous workload in this series.
England will continue to monitor Woakes' condition throughout the remainder of the series. An assessment of Woakes' injury will be conducted at the conclusion of the series.
Woakes' injury could threaten his international career, particularly with his mediocre record away from home. However, his consistent performances in the current series have shown his value to the team, and fans will be hoping for a speedy recovery.
The Rothesay Fifth Test is taking place at The Kia Oval in south London, with the final result of the match and the series hanging in the balance. The English team will need to rally and find a way to win without their key pace bowler, Chris Woakes.
The English team faces a challenging task without Woakes, as the Rothesay Fifth Test hangs in the balance. India may capitalise on Woakes' absence, given their batting opportunities presented in the sports match.
