On a dramatic final day at The Oval, England all-rounder Chris Woakes walked out to bat despite a serious shoulder injury, underlining the desperation and tension that surrounded the fifth Test decider against India. Woakes, who had dislocated his shoulder while fielding on Day 1 and played no further part in the match—missing both England’s second bowling stint and his first-innings batting—strode out at No. 11 with England just one wicket away from defeat and still needing runs to win the Test and seal the series.

It was a remarkable act of courage from the Warwickshire veteran. With his arm in a sling, Woakes received a standing ovation from the Oval crowd for putting country above comfort. Yet his appearance was not without consequence, as the pain from even basic running seemed to aggravate the injury, putting his availability for upcoming matches in doubt.

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Former England captain Sir Alastair Cook criticized India’s tactical choices in the final stages of the match, especially captain Shubman Gill’s decision to not bring all fielders in close when Woakes arrived at the crease. Cook, speaking on BBC Test Match Special, said, “I think running has caused the shoulder absolute agony. Not smart by India – I’m not sure why Shubman Gill wouldn’t have everyone up. England got away with one there.”

Arm in a sling, Chris Woakes has arrived to the crease 😱 pic.twitter.com/D4QDscnfXE

— Sky Sports Cricket (@SkyCricket) August 4, 2025

Earlier in the day, England resumed their innings needing just 35 runs with four wickets in hand. Mohammed Siraj brought India right back into the contest with a fiery spell, starting by dismissing Jamie Smith for 2, caught behind by Dhruv Jurel. He then trapped Jamie Overton LBW for 9 with a delivery that nipped back sharply.

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With nerves mounting, Prasidh Krishna bowled Josh Tongue to reduce England to nine down. Siraj, in his second spell of the morning, completed the job by dismissing Gus Atkinson, sealing a thrilling 6-run win for India. The result leveled the five-match series 2-2, with India walking away with immense pride, and England reflecting on what could have been.