As the final day of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy looms large at The Oval, England stand within touching distance of a memorable series win. Just 35 runs separate them from sealing the deal, with six wickets in hand. But even as Joe Root and Harry Brook’s heroics take center stage, another story quietly brews in the background – that of Chris Woakes.
The all-rounder, who picked up a suspected shoulder dislocation on Day 1, hasn’t been seen on the field since. No bowling, no fielding, just ice packs and assessments. Yet here we are on the eve of Day 5, with Woakes reportedly ready to walk out at No. 11 if called upon. His shoulder may be hanging by a thread, but his commitment? Rock solid.
🚨 UPDATE FROM THE ENGLAND CAMP!
— Yogesh Goswami (@yogeshgoswami_) August 3, 2025
◾ Chris Woakes spotted in his whites – but wearing a sling 😬
◾ Ruled out earlier due to shoulder injury – Still padded up, ready if absolutely needed 💪
◾ Will Woakes bat at 11? Or is it just mind games?#ENGvIND #WTC27 #INDvsENG pic.twitter.com/Cvhi1gn6dT
Can He Actually Bat?
The question many fans are asking is simple: Can someone ruled out of a series still play in the current Test match? The answer is yes – absolutely.
Being ruled out of a series is a forward-looking decision. It affects upcoming matches, not the one already in progress. As long as the player hasn’t been officially withdrawn from the match before the toss, they remain a part of the playing XI for all five days, injury or not.
So if Woakes, broken shoulder and all, is up for it – he’s allowed to bat.
Bravery, Not Just Regulations
It’s easy to focus on rules and eligibility, but there’s something deeply human about this potential Woakes appearance. The idea of him padding up and walking out, perhaps with one good arm, evokes echoes of Malcolm Marshall batting with a fractured hand, or Anil Kumble bowling through the pain of a broken jaw in Antigua. These are the moments that turn Test cricket into legend.
Joe Root spoke after Day 4 and captured the sentiment perfectly.
“He’s all-in, like the rest of us… He had some throwdowns in here and he’s ready if needed. He’s desperate to do what it takes.”
It’s not about playing a beautiful cover drive or hooking one over fine leg. If Woakes comes in, it’ll be about guts, grit, and possibly just staying put for Root at the other end.
What’s at Stake
With the second new ball due in 22 deliveries and four wickets left in the bank, India are still very much in this contest. One or two quick wickets, and suddenly that No. 11 spot could become very real, very fast. And England will need Woakes, not for his runs, but for his resistance.
Even standing tall at the non-striker’s end could make a difference. Even soaking up a few balls. Test matches have been won on less.
Final Conclusion
Chris Woakes may not be able to lift his arm, but he’s shown he can lift spirits. His willingness to walk out if needed, even with a busted shoulder, says everything about the man and about what this series has meant to the players on both sides.
And in case you were still wondering – yes, he can bat. He’s still part of this Test. And he’s still part of the fight.
Because in cricket, being “ruled out” of the series doesn’t always mean being ruled out of history.
