In a display of sheer grit and patriotism, Chris Woakes stunned cricket fans across the globe by walking out to bat on Day 5 of the fifth Test between India and England at The Oval, despite suffering a dislocated shoulder. The England all-rounder, who had been ruled out of the match on Day 1, left the cricketing world awestruck as he appeared at the crease wearing a sling on his injured arm.
An Unexpected Heroic Moment at The Oval
With England nine wickets down and needing 35 runs to secure a famous series-clinching victory, the 36-year-old Woakes stepped up when no one expected him to. Just moments after Josh Tongue’s dismissal, Woakes walked out at No. 11 to a rousing ovation from the crowd, receiving cheers that echoed throughout the historic Oval ground.
The England Cricket Board (ECB) had earlier confirmed that Woakes was unavailable for the remainder of the match due to a suspected dislocated shoulder sustained while fielding on the opening day. His participation for the rest of the series was ruled out—until this extraordinary twist.
Woakes’ Commitment Leaves England Fans Emotional
Despite his visible discomfort, Woakes’ decision to prepare himself for a potential batting cameo began the previous day. On Sunday, he was spotted receiving throwdowns in the indoor nets and was seen padding up in anticipation of a final-day emergency call-up. This foresight proved prescient, as England’s innings teetered at a crucial juncture.
“He’s all-in, like the rest of us,” said Joe Root, who earlier scored a brilliant century on Day 5. Root added, “It just shows the character and the person that he’s willing to put his body on the line like that for England.“
The England dressing room was filled with admiration, and Root’s comments underlined the theme of resilience that has run through this IND vs ENG Test series.
Series Defined by Grit and Pain
Arm in a sling, Chris Woakes has arrived to the crease 😱 pic.twitter.com/D4QDscnfXE
— Sky Sports Cricket (@SkyCricket) August 4, 2025
This series has not just been about big runs or dramatic wickets—it’s been a war of attrition. Players on both sides have pushed their physical limits. Rishabh Pant batted with a fractured foot, Indian pacers have carried niggles through games, and now Woakes’ courageous act has further symbolized the immense determination and spirit both teams have displayed.
“It’s been that kind of series,” Root said. “Guys have had to put bodies on the line. Hopefully, it doesn’t get to that point, but if it does—Woakes is ready.“
Even though India eventually won the match by six wickets and leveled the series 2-2, Woakes’ effort won hearts and drew praise from all corners of the cricketing fraternity. The match may not have ended in England’s favor, but the image of a one-armed Woakes walking out to bat, carrying both courage and pain, will be one of the most iconic moments of the 2025 Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy.
Fans React to Woakes’ Bravery
The video of Woakes entering the field, wearing a sling and greeted by standing applause, quickly went viral. Fans flooded social media with tributes:
“Warrior spirit. Chris Woakes, you’ve earned legendary status.”
“Even a dislocated shoulder couldn’t stop him. This is why we love Test cricket.”
The Road Ahead for Woakes
As of now, the extent of Woakes’ injury remains unclear, though team officials suggest a formal medical update is expected soon. Regardless of what scans reveal, his act of courage will likely keep him out of action for weeks, possibly affecting his availability for upcoming series.
But even if this marks a temporary or long-term pause in Woakes’ playing days, his commitment to the team when it mattered most will be remembered for years to come.
