It's official! Chris Woakes ruled out from remainder of fifth Test

England's campaign in the ongoing fifth Test against India was dealt a serious setback with key all-rounder Chris Woakes ruled out because of a suspected shoulder dislocation. The incident occurred on the opening day of the match at The Oval, casting a shadow over England's pursuit of a dominant series finish.

Woakes, a key figure in England's bowling and batting lineup, sustained the injury while attempting to save a boundary by Karun Nair at long-off. Landing awkwardly on his left shoulder after a sharp dive, he was seen in immediate pain and had to leave the field, his arm cradled in his sweater.

Initial reports from the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) confirm that while his condition will be continuously monitored, he will take no further part in the Test match.

The news comes as a fresh blow for an England squad already grappling with a growing list of unavailable players, including their talismanic skipper, Ben Stokes. Woakes's absence creates a significant void, having bowled 14 overs so far in the ongoing Test, picking up the crucial wicket of KL Rahul, and conceding 46 runs.

Teammate Gus Atkinson, who himself impressed with two wickets on the rain-affected opening day, acknowledged the gravity of Woakes's injury. "It doesn't look great," Atkinson said, expressing hope for a swift recovery while emphasising the team's full support. Despite the concern for Woakes, Atkinson displayed confidence in stepping up, stating, "I feel fresh, I feel good... I can push the limits a bit." His readiness will be crucial as England seek to maintain their 2-1 series lead without their star all-rounder.

Needing a win to level the series, India were 204 for six at stumps on a rain-hit opening day of the series deciding fifth Test. Nair (52 batting off 98 balls) has been the anchor, with Washington Sundar (19 batting off 45) keeping him company at close of play. Rain halted play twice but 64 overs were played through an extended evening session.