WOAKES IS BACK FOR ASHES BID
CHRIS WOAKES will restart his Test career at Headingley after injury as England’s Ashes plans begin to take shape.
The Warwickshire all-rounder has fully recovered from the side strain he suffered against Bangladesh in the Champions Trophy and has elbowed Toby Roland-Jones out of the team in its most competitive department.
Skipper Joe Root admitted: “It was a very difficult decision to make, with Toby having come in and put in some strong performances. But it is important that Woakesy gets some game-time in.
“He has been phenomenal for us. His record last year for us was outstanding.
“His challenge will be to back that up.
“It is important to make sure we win this series. After a strong performance last week it is vitally important that we gain some momentum and consistency moving ahead.”
Root will captain England for the first time on his home ground, and hopes to enjoy similar success to his first Test at Headingley when he made his first hundred.
“I’m very proud to get the opportunity to do that here,” added Root (below).
“I have a lot of fond memories here as a kid watching Test and county cricket and then getting the opportunity to now lead out England is very special.”