England all-rounder Chris Woakes could have bowled his last over in the current fifth Test against India after incurring a suspected shoulder dislocation while fielding on Day 1 at The Oval. The mishap happened late in the day when Woakes sprinted after the ball to the boundary from mid-off.
When he attempted to decelerate on the wet outfield, his left hand slipped, and he awkwardly fell onto his left shoulder. Woakes stayed on the ground, clearly in agony, holding his shoulder. England physio Ben Davies was quick to rush to his assistance. The 35-year-old was later spotted walking off the pitch with his jumper serving as a sling.
Scan to be set up as England waits for Chris Woakes’ injury news
An England team official refused to reveal the seriousness of the injury in the immediate moment but did say that Chris Woakes would get an overnight scan to determine the extent of the damage. The scan results will most likely determine whether he continues to contribute to the game in any way.
Gus Atkinson Responds: “It Doesn’t Look Great”
England fast bowler Gus Atkinson, who returned to the team following a hamstring injury, expressed his concern.
“I don’t know too much about it, but it doesn’t look great,” Gus Atkinson said after the day’s play. “It’s a big shame, last game of the series, and when anyone gets injured, it’s a shame. I’m hoping it’s not too bad, and whatever it is, he’ll get full support from everyone.”
England Left a Bowler Short with Chris Woakes Sidelined
Before the injury, 14 overs were bowled by Chris Woakes, claiming 1 for 46 on Day 1. His probable absence for the rest of the match might cost England dearly as they now look one bowler short.
Woakes has been a regular member of England’s bowling attack during the series, having bowled 181 overs and picked 11 wickets at an average of 52.18. He is also one of just two fast bowlers, besides India’s Mohammed Siraj, to have played in all five Tests of the series.
Woakes’ Experience Key Amid Young Bowling Attack
With Woakes out, England’s pace unit is now made up of relatively inexperienced bowlers. Atkinson, Josh Tongue, and Jamie Overton have a combined total of 18 Test caps. Woakes, on the other hand, is England’s most seasoned seamer in the team.
Though the loss is a setback, Atkinson spoke of being prepared to take on more responsibility:
“Definitely, I feel fresh, I feel good,” he said. “I know I’ve only got this one game to play so I can push the limits a bit.”
The Chris Woakes scan is a major setback for England as they try to seal the series against India at The Oval. With his workload of bowling throughout the series and the immediate lack of experienced seamers, his absence may be felt bitterly. More will be known from the overnight scan, but things are pointing towards Woakes not bowling again in this pivotal Test.
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