Joe Root Confirms Chris Woakes Ready to Bat Despite Injury in Thrilling Test Match
Woakes Available to Bat Despite Shoulder Injury
After a dramatic day of Test cricket marred by rain and bad light at The Oval, England's Joe Root announced that all-rounder Chris Woakes is prepared to bat despite suffering a shoulder injury. Woakes sustained the injury while fielding on the first day of the Test match, leading the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) to declare he would not participate further in the match. However, he practiced batting one-handed in an indoor facility on Sunday and donned his whites during the evening session, ready to step in at number 11 if necessary. England requires 35 runs to win, while India needs three or four wickets to secure a draw, contingent on Woakes' ability to bat.
Root Discusses Woakes' Determination
In a press conference before the final day of the series, Root remarked, "He’s all-in, just like the rest of us. This series has demanded that players put their bodies on the line. Hopefully, it won’t come to that, but he had some throwdowns in the indoor school and is ready if called upon... He is eager to do whatever it takes."
The specifics of Woakes' injury remain unconfirmed, and he may undergo further scans after the match for a complete assessment. His participation for the remainder of the Test summer seems doubtful, and he is uncertain for the first Ashes Test in Perth on November 21, especially considering his challenging record in Australia.
Woakes' Commitment Highlighted
Root further emphasized Woakes' commitment, stating, "Clearly, he is in significant pain after what he has endured. It reflects the spirit we've seen from others in this series, like Rishabh Pant batting with a broken foot. It means a lot to him."
"It showcases his character and willingness to sacrifice for England. Hopefully, he won’t have to, but if it comes to that, he can help us clinch an incredible series victory," he added.
Root Reflects on the Final Day's Challenges
Discussing the match extending into the final day, Root noted the "pros and cons" for both teams. He explained, "The Indian bowlers have bowled a lot, and if we get a few boundaries, the game can shift dramatically. However, returning tomorrow allows for rest and a fresh opportunity. Both teams face advantages and disadvantages; it’s just how it has unfolded."
"As players, there’s not much we can do but wait and follow instructions. From our perspective, we look forward to an exciting spectacle tomorrow," he concluded, reflecting on the series' trend of matches going to the final day.
Overview of the Test Match Progress
As the Test match unfolded, England concluded the first session of day four at 164/3, needing 210 runs for victory, with Harry Brook (38*) and Joe Root (23*) not out. After opting to bat first, England managed to restrict India to 153/6. A notable partnership of 58 runs between Karun Nair (57 off 109 balls) and Washington Sundar (26 off 55 balls) was pivotal as India was bowled out for 224 runs. Gus Atkinson's five-wicket haul and Josh Tongue's 3/57 were significant contributions.
In their second innings, England was reduced to 247 runs despite a strong opening partnership of 92 runs between Zak Crawley (64 off 57 balls) and Ben Duckett (43 off 38 balls). India then took a 23-run lead.
In India's second innings, significant contributions came from Yashasvi Jaiswal (118 off 164 balls), Akash Deep (66 off 94 balls), Ravindra Jadeja (53 off 77 balls), and Washington Sundar (53 off 46 balls), leading India to a total of 396 runs and setting a target of 374 runs for England to win the series.
At the end of day four, England stood at 339/6, with Jamie Overton (0*) and Jamie Smith (2*) at the crease. England still requires 35 runs for victory, with uncertainty surrounding Chris Woakes' ability to bat following his shoulder injury. Wickets from Akash Deep and Prasidh Krishna, along with a relentless spell from Mohammed Siraj, have given Indian fans hope that their team can make England work hard for the remaining runs.