Chris Woakes is prepared to put his body on the line to help England secure a memorable Test series win over India, despite nursing a shoulder injury, according to former captain Joe Root.
Woakes injured his left shoulder while attempting to prevent a boundary on day one of the fifth Test, and England later confirmed the setback had ruled him out of further participation in the match.
However, with England needing 35 more runs on the final day at The Oval to complete a record 3-1 series win, Woakes was spotted in the dressing room in full playing gear — albeit with his arm still in a sling.
Speaking to BBC Test Match Special, Root said the all-rounder is prepared to bat if the situation demands it.
“I assume so. He is desperate to do what it takes,” said Root. “There are a lot of things that have to happen before that, but he’s all in, like the rest of us. It’s been that kind of series where guys have had to put bodies on the line.”
England were cruising at 301-3 in pursuit of 374 before losing three quick wickets late on day four. Root and Harry Brook had shared a crucial 195-run stand for the fourth wicket before Brook was caught at cover, debutant Jacob Bethell was bowled, and Root himself edged behind.
Bad light halted play shortly after, and rain then brought an early end to the day, leaving England on 339-6 with four wickets in hand.
The sudden collapse gave India renewed hope and increased the likelihood that Woakes may be required to bat.
“Hopefully it doesn’t come to that, but he had some throw-downs in here at one point so he’s ready if needed,” added Root. “It shows the character and the person that he is, that he’s prepared to put his body on the line like that for England.
“And hopefully he doesn’t have to, but if it does, to get us across the line and win us an incredible series.”