Chris Woakes

Chris Woakes is a dependable all-rounder who has been a vital part of England’s setup across formats for over a decade. A right-arm fast-medium bowler and a technically sound right-handed batter, Woakes made his international debut in 2011 and quickly earned a reputation for his swing bowling, particularly in English conditions. His calm presence and ability to deliver in crucial moments have made him a go-to player in both Tests and white-ball cricket.

In red-ball cricket, Woakes has been particularly effective at home, where his ability to move the ball both ways has troubled top-order batters consistently. He has also proven himself with the bat, scoring a Test century against India at Lord’s and playing several key lower-order innings. In white-ball formats, Woakes played a major role in England’s 2019 World Cup triumph, delivering crucial spells with the new ball and contributing with the bat when needed.

Often underrated compared to flashier all-rounders, Woakes has quietly built an impressive record, especially in England where his averages with both bat and ball are among the best in the team. He has also been a consistent performer in the IPL and The Hundred, adapting his skillset to suit shorter formats. As a senior figure in the dressing room, Woakes brings experience, reliability, and versatility, making him an invaluable asset in England’s cricketing arsenal.