Chris Woakes in doubt after shoulder injury

Chris Woakes’s participation in the fifth Test between England and India at The Oval is in serious doubt after sustaining a suspected dislocated left shoulder while fielding late on Day 1. The 36‑year‑old went to the boundary to prevent a four and landed awkwardly, immediately grabbing his shoulder in visible pain before being escorted from the field with his arm supported by a makeshift sling crafted from his sweater.

Scans scheduled overnight are expected to determine the full severity of the injury. Given the early signs, Woakes is very unlikely to continue bowling in this match. Teammate Gus Atkinson, England’s standout performer on the opening day, described the situation as “a big shame” and admitted, “it doesn’t look great,” hinting that Woakes may have played his last minutes in this Test series.

The potential absence of Woakes adds gravity to England’s already thin seam bowling unit. With Ben Stokes sidelined due to a right‑shoulder muscle tear and Jofra Archer rested, the bowling responsibility now falls to Atkinson, alongside Josh Tongue and Jamie Overton-a trio with just 18 Test caps combined. Despite the injuries, England managed to restrict India to 204/6, ending the day in a strong position thanks to wickets from Atkinson and Tongue and a crucial run-out of captain Shubman Gill.

Amid the on-field drama, a touching moment of sportsmanship caught eyes when India’s Karun Nair declined a fourth run following Woakes’s injury, illustrating cricket’s spirit even in competitive tension. As the series sits at 2-1 in England’s favour, Day 2 will not only be dictated by playing conditions but also by medical clarity-if Woakes is ruled out, England’s attack will be pushed to its limits in the decisive stages of the match.