Hope I have done enough to show that am ready: Chris Woakes

England all-rounder Chris Woakes has returned to the side after staying on the sidelines due to injury during the opening game of the Champions Trophy 2017 against Bangladesh. In his quest to return, Woakes has managed to play a first-class match and prove his match fitness.

He is keen on making an impression on his return to international cricket at his home ground at Edgbaston where England face Windies in a day-night Test match. Woakes also acknowledged the competition in the team to fill in spots and that they have a dearth of talent that can replace any player in the squad.

“When you’re injured there’s always someone knocking on the door ready to take your place. When you get injured that’s frustrating for you and you have to prove yourself again. I hope I have done enough to show that I’m ready, and fingers crossed I do play,” Woakes said while addressing the media.

He is excited to be playing on his home ground and also spoke about the atmosphere at the ground. “Whenever you play at Edgbaston it’s always brilliant. The atmosphere will be fantastic, and it will be exciting for the players to be involved with that,” he said.

Wishes Stoneman a successful debut

Mark Stoneman is set to debut at Edgbaston as a replacement for opener Keaton Jennings. The 28-year-old wished him well and praised the Durham opener for his batting skills. “It is the last Test series before the Ashes, and I hope he can come in score some runs for himself and for the team. I have played a lot against Mark and I have always found him difficult to bowl to. He hits the bad ball for four – which is always frustrating for a bowler – and he’s in good form,” Woakes further said.

Recently, the right-arm pacer also spoke to Sky Sports and said that he was delighted to get back into the scheme of things for the national team. “ I’m feeling fit but whether I play or not is out of my hands but it’s great to be back in the squad and to be around the group again. I’m pleased with where I’m at but I would have liked to have got more cricket in. Because of all the T20 games, there was only one County Championship match, but I got a couple of second XI games in before that,” he stated.

What next for Woakes and England?

The pacer looks set to feature in the first Test against Windies which starts from 17th August. England will host Windies for 3 Tests, lone T20I and 5 ODIs. The next major assignment for England is Ashes which will be played in Australia. Woakes could be the vital member of the side if he stays away from injuries.