London, Aug 7 (PTI) — Despite the intense pain from a dislocated shoulder, England all-rounder Chris Woakes never considered sitting out of the final day of the fifth Test against India. Woakes emerged onto the field with his left hand in a sling, resolute to bat if needed, although England narrowly lost the match.
Woakes expressed regret over the defeat but emphasized the strong sense of responsibility he felt towards his team. According to Woakes, the motivation to step out came not just from playing for himself but also from acknowledging the hard work and sacrifices made by his teammates and supporters. "It's your team and your teammates, all the hard work and the sacrifices they put in, the people watching at home and in the ground. You just feel a duty to do it for everyone," he conveyed.
Despite the ovation and the respect shown by some Indian players, Woakes humbly believed that any player in his position would have acted similarly. "You couldn’t just call it off at nine wickets down,” he elucidated.
Woakes, in anticipation of potentially batting, started practicing one-handed batting techniques from the fourth day of the Test with the help of England assistant coach Marcus Trescothick. Despite the agony of attempting a normal defense, they concluded a left-hander’s stance would better protect Woakes’s injured shoulder, allowing him some control in his play.
In a show of camaraderie across teams, Woakes recounted his interactions with Shubman Gill and Rishabh Pant, acknowledging each other’s performances and bravery throughout the series. Both had appreciated the determination shown and exchanged pleasantries as they reflected on the intense but amicable series.
Although Woakes did not face any balls, he described the challenging experience of running between the wickets, stating the pain was sharp despite taking codeine. Reflecting on his precarious position, Woakes admitted relief at not having to face a fast-paced bouncer with his impaired stance.
Initially after his fall on the wet outfield on the first day, Woakes feared the worst regarding the future of his cricketing career. The severe pain and the unsettling pop he heard during his slide caused alarm, making him question if it was the end of his playing career.
With hopes for recovery, Woakes continues to face uncertain times, though buoyed by the support from both his teammates and opponents.
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