The final day of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy at The Oval promises a dramatic conclusion, with England close to a series victory. Needing just 35 runs with six wickets remaining, England is within reach of victory. Amidst the performances of Joe Root and Harry Brook, another narrative has emerged: the situation involving Chris Woakes.
Woakes, the all-rounder, sustained a shoulder injury on Day 1 and hasn’t been able to participate in the field. Despite this, he is reportedly prepared to bat at No. 11 on Day 5, displaying immense determination even with his injury.
The main question many fans are asking: Can a player ruled out of a series still play in the current Test match? The answer is a resounding yes. Being ruled out of a series is a future-oriented decision, affecting matches to come, not the one currently underway. If a player hasn’t been officially removed from the match before the toss, they are still part of the playing XI for all five days, irrespective of their injury.
So if Woakes, despite his shoulder injury, is willing to play, he is eligible to bat.
Beyond the regulations, there is a deeply human element to this potential Woakes appearance. This evokes the spirit of players like Malcolm Marshall, who played with a broken hand, or Anil Kumble, who bowled with a fractured jaw. These are the moments that elevate Test cricket to legendary status.
Joe Root perfectly summarized the sentiment after Day 4.
“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.”
If Woakes bats, it won’t be about spectacular strokes, but about grit and perhaps staying at the crease to support Root.
With the second new ball nearing and India still in the contest, a couple of quick wickets could make that No. 11 spot highly significant. England might need Woakes’ resilience.
Even standing at the non-striker’s end could be crucial. Test matches have been won on less.
Chris Woakes’ willingness to play, despite his injury, says everything about his commitment and what the series has meant to the players.
And the answer is yes, he can bat. He is still part of this Test and the fight.
In cricket, being “ruled out” of the series doesn’t always mean being ruled out of history.