IND vs ENG 5th Test: Chris Woakes ready to bat left-handed if needed in Oval decider | Cricket News
England all-rounder Chris Woakes is prepared to bat left-handed if required on the final day of the fifth Test against India. Woakes injured his shoulder while diving to save a boundary on Day 1, and there were questions over whether he would be able to bat if needed. But Joe Root confirmed after play on Day 4 that Woakes is willing to do whatever it takes to help the team over the line. “He’s all in. If he has to bat left-handed, he’ll do it. That’s the kind of character he is,” said Root. Root also drew a parallel with India’s Rishabh Pant, who earlier in the series came out to bat despite a serious leg injury. “We saw Pant do something similar. It shows how much these games mean to players,” Root added.
Pant had hobbled to the crease during the fourth Test and batted with visible discomfort, showing immense bravery. His courage was praised by both teammates and opponents, and Root’s comparison underlined the respect such acts earn.
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At stumps on Day 4, England were 339 for 6 chasing 374. Jamie Smith and Jamie Overton were in the middle. The new ball is due in just 3.4 overs, and India still need four wickets to level the series. With rain in the air and conditions set to favour the bowlers, Day 5 promises high drama. Whether Woakes is needed or not, his willingness to walk out injured shows the spirit in this England side.
