Chris Woakes could step in to bat for England on the final day of the fifth Test at The Oval despite a suspected shoulder dislocation, according to Joe Root. England need 35 more runs to seal a 3-1 series win against India, and Woakes has told teammates he is willing to bat at No. 11 if the match tightens.
Woakes injured his left shoulder while fielding on the first day and spent much of Sunday with his arm in a sling. Yet he changed into his whites late in the day and took one-handed throwdowns in the indoor school, readying himself to play a role if required.
“He’s all in, like the rest of us,” Root said after scoring 105 to anchor England’s chase. “It’s been that kind of series, where guys have had to put bodies on the line. Hopefully, it doesn’t get to that. But he had some throwdowns in here and he’s ready if needed. He’s desperate to do what it takes.”
Whether Woakes would attempt to bat right-handed, in the style of Malcolm Marshall in 1984, or switch to left-handed like Pakistan’s Saleem Malik once did, remains uncertain.
“I’m not sure,” Root said. “I’ve not seen him practice yet. You might get a better indication tomorrow if he has some throwdowns in the morning.”
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England have not confirmed the full extent of Woakes’ injury. He will undergo scans after the match, and is unlikely to play again this summer, putting his participation in the upcoming Ashes series in doubt.
Root praised Woakes’ determination, calling it an example of the spirit that has defined the series. “Clearly, he’s in a huge amount of pain having done what he’s done. It just shows the character and the person that he’s willing to put his body on the line like that for England.”
Root’s century also carried personal significance. He wore one of Graham Thorpe’s trademark white headbands as a tribute to the former England batter and coach, who passed away earlier this year. On reaching his hundred, Root pointed to the sky.
“The way Surrey and the ECB have recognized his service to English cricket has been amazing to see,” Root said. “That little celebration was really the team’s gesture, a small tribute to everything he’s given the game over the years.”
England will resume on Monday morning with four wickets in hand and the heavy roller likely to aid batting. If the lower order can finish the chase, Woakes’ courage may not be tested. But as Root made clear, he is ready.
