Woakes Eager to Make an Impact in Test Series Against India

LEEDS: Veteran English fast bowler Chris Woakes has declared his intention to perform at his peak in the forthcoming five-Test series against India. He expressed his determination to assist in filling the void created by the absence of legendary pacemen James Anderson and Stuart Broad.

Woakes mentioned on a British media podcast that it felt fulfilling to significantly contribute when the team was in need.

“There are pivotal moments in sports, especially in Test cricket. Many had likely dismissed our chances. It was fantastic to have such a major effect on a critical series when the team required it most,” he stated.

While some have labeled him as England’s ‘attack leader’ given Anderson’s retirement, Woakes seemed reluctant to embrace the title.

“I’m not particularly fond of the ‘attack leader’ concept. The opener faces the initial ball, but we don’t consider them the batting leader,” he elaborated.

Woakes has accepted his role as a senior bowler, which he assumed after Anderson’s retirement last summer.

“When a team excels without you, your immediate thought revolves around the difficulty of regaining your position,” Woakes acknowledged.

“I was concerned that my red-ball career was over and whether I could return to the standard required for Test cricket—the ability to endure and bowl numerous overs daily. Thankfully, things have been quite positive since then.”

With 1,970 runs and 181 wickets under his belt, Woakes is approaching the milestone of becoming only the sixth English player to achieve the double of 2,000 runs and 200 wickets in Test cricket, a feat he might have attained more quickly than most, except for Ian Botham.

“There may have been times when I considered it, but it has never really preoccupied me,” he noted.

“I don’t view myself as one of the all-time greats. You are aware of your capabilities. I don’t place myself in the same category as Broad and Anderson, or Glenn McGrath or Curtly Ambrose.

“I believe I’ve maximized my potential. I’ve put in immense effort to reach this point. Ultimately, if I’m selected, it indicates that I’m capable of playing for England. As long as I’m contributing, that’s all that matters.”

Woakes also emphasized the significance of maintaining a balanced approach and enjoying the game under the guidance of Brendon McCullum and Ben Stokes.

“You can’t sustain that level of intensity and scrutiny with a rigid structure. It pushed them to their limits. Once you reach the top, the challenge is to remain there. That’s the most difficult aspect,” he concluded.

The five-match Test series between England and India is scheduled to commence at Headingley, Leeds, on June 20. Subsequent matches will be held at Edgbaston, Lord’s, Old Trafford, and The Oval.

England squad for the first Test against India:
  • Ben Stokes (captain)
  • Shoaib Bashir
  • Jacob Bethell
  • Harry Brook
  • Brydon Carse
  • Sam Cook
  • Zak Crawley
  • Ben Duckett
  • Jamie Overton
  • Ollie Pope
  • Joe Root
  • Jamie Smith
  • Josh Tongue
  • Chris Woakes