London, Aug 4: In a moment that encapsulated the raw spirit of Test cricket, Chris Woakes walked out to bat at The Oval with a dislocated shoulder, his left arm strapped and hidden beneath his jumper, as England stood just 17 runs away from a famous win on Day 5 of the final Test against India.
Just days earlier, Woakes had been ruled out of further participation after diving awkwardly in the field and injuring his shoulder. Yet, when his team needed him most, the 36-year-old all-rounder — possibly playing his final innings in an England shirt — strode out bravely, punching gloves with Gus Atkinson, ready to face the music one-handed.
Though he didn’t face a delivery — Josh Tongue was bowled and Atkinson shielded the strike — the mere act of being there was heroic. Every run Atkinson managed brought visible pain to Woakes, who grimaced through singles and twos, wincing as he adjusted his sling with one hand or sought help from umpire Ahsan Raza.Woakes’ entrance mirrored the earlier courage of Rishabh Pant, who batted through a fractured foot in Manchester. .According to reports, Woakes had attempted a brief batting session in the indoor nets before walking out, trying everything from his usual stance to a makeshift left-handed grip — all in an effort to protect his damaged shoulder while still offering some presence at the crease.“Good on Woakesy,” said England head coach Brendon McCullum. “He was in serious pain, but there was never any doubt he’d come out if needed.” (Agencies)
