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As the highly anticipated Ashes series approaches in November, all-rounder Chris Woakes is diligently working towards being fit for selection. Woakes, who recently made a comeback to Test cricket during the India vs. England series, faced a setback in the final match at The Oval where he dislocated his shoulder trying to save a boundary.
Despite the injury, the 36-year-old showed immense determination by bravely walking out to bat with his arm in a sling during the Test. Following the match, Woakes deliberated between rehab and surgery, but a recent sighting of him without the sling at The Hundred tournament hinted at a more positive outlook regarding his recovery. Woakes has decided to focus on rehabilitation for the time being rather than opting for surgery.
“It’s certainly good news for me. That’s the best way to look at it. Obviously out of the sling and I feel like I can move it a lot better now, which is good two weeks down the line,” Woakes shared in an interview with Sky Sports.
“I’m going to try and stay focused on the rehab and get it as strong as possible. Ideally, I won’t need surgery for now, but we’ll see how that goes and hopefully we can get it nice and strong again,” he added.
Woakes ended the series against India with 11 wickets from five Tests at an average of 52.18. While not performing at his peak, Woakes’ wealth of experience will be invaluable for England as they aim to reclaim the coveted Ashes urn, last won in 2018.
