In a huge setback for England, all-rounder Chris Woakes has been ruled out of the remainder of the ongoing fifth Test at The Oval due to a shoulder injury.
Ahead of Day 2, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) released an official statement confirming that Woakes will be monitored for the rest of the match, but is “at this stage” not expected to take any further part.
The ECB stated: “England seamer Chris Woakes will continue to be monitored throughout the remainder of the Rothesay Fifth Test at The Kia Oval, following a left shoulder injury sustained on day one of the match against India. At this stage, the injury has ruled him out of any further participation in the Test. A further assessment will be conducted at the conclusion of the series.”
The 36-year-old suffered the injury while fielding on Day 1. During the 57th over of India’s innings, Woakes dived near the boundary in an attempt to save a four but landed awkwardly on his left shoulder. He appeared to be in immediate discomfort and was seen holding his shoulder with his right hand as he left the field.
Before the injury, Woakes had bowled 14 overs and taken one wicket. Gus Atkinson, speaking to the media after the first day, said the situation didn’t look promising.
“I don’t know too much, but it doesn’t look too great,” Atkinson told reporters. “It’s the last game of the series, so it’s a big shame.”
With Woakes sidelined, England will have to play one short for the remainder of the crucial, series-deciding Test.
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