Chris Woakes likely to miss first two Test matches against South Africa

The right-arm medium fast bowler, Chris Woakes has been a regular face in English jersey from quite some time now. He has been a pivotal part of England’s success in last year and a half. After proving his stature with the ball, Chris has also shown his glimpse with the bat by providing those extra 30-40 runs.

Chris Woakes had an exceptional Indian Premier League season with Kolkata Knight Riders after England opened its door for the player to participate in the cash-rich tournament. However, even when Chris performed exceptionally well for his franchise, he wasn’t the most comfortable player at the end of it.

Recently, Chris was ruled of the ICC Champions Trophy after suffering a from side strain. As mentioned by English reporters, it is definitely a big loss to English side even when they have found a replacement for him.

Chris Woakes likely to miss first two Test matches:

What could trouble England more is the fact that Woakes is likely to miss first two Tests against South Africa which are scheduled to begin after Champions Trophy. It is believed that even if Woakes is declared fit by then, which is unlikely to happen, it won’t be pragmatic for him to be in Test shoes just after the injury.

When asked about the present status of his injury, Woakes said, “It’s a left side strain and there is a tear in the muscle. It’s a grade-two injury, which is not terrible news, but it’s not great news at the same time.

“They say it’s roughly a four- to six-week injury, and it’s more likely to be towards the six when I am back playing competitive cricket. I’m on day five of my recovery now, and the physio say for the first 10 to 14 days there’s not a lot we can do other than rest it.

“You don’t rule it out, but I’m probably up against it for the first Test. Sometimes these things heal quicker; sometimes they take longer, so we have to play it by ear.

“It’s also one of those things you can’t rush back – if you do, it can just ping again. You have to make sure you’re right before you come back. The timing of it is frustrating, it’s terrible, but it’s one of those things.”

Injury issues with James Anderson:

With Chris Woakes, James Anderson also seems to be not 100 percent fit as he suffered a groin injury playing for Lancashire. However, he was seen returning to gentle training.

England will be hoping to have their frontline bowlers fit before the much anticipated Test series against England and keep their domination over Proteas in white jersey as well.