England Fast Bowler Woakes Ruled Out Ashes With Shoulder Injury

England fast bowler Chris Woakes has been ruled out of the upcoming Ashes series in Australia after suffering a serious left shoulder dislocation during the fifth Test against India at The Oval. The injury occurred while Woakes was fielding and trying to stop a boundary, leading to immediate medical attention and scans that indicated surgery is likely required. Recovery from such injuries can take up to six months, effectively ending Woakes's participation in the Ashes starting in November and raising doubts about his long-term Test career given his age and previous overseas performance. His absence significantly weakens England's already stretched bowling lineup, which is also missing key players like captain Ben Stokes due to injury and has limited frontline pace options remaining. Despite his modest wicket tally on flat pitches, Woakes's experience and control were crucial for England's bowling attack throughout the series. The injury is a severe blow to England's hopes of securing a series win over India and presents challenges for team selection and strategy going forward.