Chris Woakes Ready to Lead England’s Bowling Attack in Upcoming Tours

Chris Woakes, the English fast bowler, has expressed his readiness to lead England‘s bowling attack during the upcoming tours to Pakistan and New Zealand. Despite struggling to match his impressive home record during overseas tours, Woakes is determined to contribute if selected by the England selectors.

In his home career, Woakes has taken 127 wickets in 32 Test matches, whereas his performance abroad has seen him pick up only 36 wickets in 20 matches. His last overseas tour was in 2022, where he faced criticism for his performance during England’s 4-0 loss in the 2021-22 Ashes series in Australia.

<p“I'm ready to play for England wherever I’m picked,” Woakes stated in a recent interview. “I wouldn’t shy away from it, and I’m open for selection for the tours to Pakistan in October and New Zealand in December,” he added.

<pOn the first day of England's opening Test against Sri Lanka, Woakes took 3 wickets for 32 runs, displaying strong form. He noted that the gap since his last overseas Test may provide a fresh perspective on his approach.

<pWoakes has also worked diligently on improving his batting skills, which he believes enhances his selection chances. “It gives me an extra string in my bow, which could be decisive for selection,” he explained, referencing his batting average of 27.76.

<pAs England prepares for the challenges ahead, Woakes' leadership as the oldest member of the bowling attack is vital, especially in the absence of established players like James Anderson and Stuart Broad.