Woakes hopes for chance in India series

England

England fast bowler Chris Woakes is a regular pick for the Test squad, but a rare inclusion in the starting XI, and he hopes his fortunes will change in the current series against India.

England fast bowler Chris Woakes is a regular pick for the Test squad, but a rare inclusion in the starting XI, and he hopes his fortunes will change in the current series against India.

Woakes has just one Test cap to his name, picked up in August last year, and is hopeful that a possible fast bowling rotation in the five-Test series will give him the chance to add to his records.

Woakes told <i>Sky Sports</i> ahead of the second Test at Lord's: "It's tricky, obviously. I've been in a few squads and not made the final XI.

"But I will keep pushing and keep trying to get in there then hopefully my chance will come. I feel like I'm in decent form, and that is shown by being picked in the squads.

"It's a five-Test series, all pretty much-back-to-back. There might be some rotation at some point. It's obviously hard work on the seamers who have had heavy workloads recently.

"If I do get my chance I'm looking to take it. If there is a rotation policy then hopefully I'll be fresh when I do come in."

One player who stands a good chance of making the XI is spinner Simon Kerrigan, added to the squad after the first Test, where the spin left much to be desired. Woakes hopes his team-mate will get a chance to show he's more than his dire debut suggested.

The paceman added: "It's great for him to be included in the squad again. He's excited. I captained him in Sri Lanka and he has come on as a bowler. He's a tough character.

"He's a great bowler and he's shown that in county cricket. I've played against him quite a lot and with him for the Lions, I thought he was brilliant in the winter.

"He's definitely improved his game and I'm sure he's ready if he's given the opportunity."

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