Chris Woakes Aims to Lead Young Pace Attack as Senior Bowler After Anderson's Exit

Chris Woakes steps up as the senior bowler in England's cricket team following James Anderson's retirement. As he prepares for the Ashes tour in 2025-26, Woakes aims to improve his overseas record, drawing inspiration from retired legends. England faces the West Indies in the second Test with Woakes at the helm.

Chris Woakes, England's seasoned all-rounder, is looking to draw inspiration from retired cricketing legends Stuart Broad and James Anderson as he takes on the mantle of leading the young and talented pace attack in the second Test against the Caribbean side.

With Anderson recently retiring after the victorious first Test against the West Indies, Woakes now stands as the sole senior bowler in the English camp. Known for his formidable record on home soil, the 35-year-old aims to improve his overseas numbers, especially in Australia, ahead of the Ashes tour in 2025-26.

'I've always focused on the next game, the next series, and being in the best possible shape for it,' Woakes shared. 'I draw inspiration from how Broad and Anderson evolved as they aged, and I hope to follow in their footsteps. However, my away record hasn't been stellar, and I need to work hard on that,' he added.

At home, Woakes boasts 1,054 runs and 114 wickets, making him a vital player. On foreign pitches, the record is less impressive, with just 36 wickets and 723 runs. As the series continues at Trent Bridge, Nottingham, Woakes is also prepared to take the new ball, a role he hasn't typically played in his career.

'It'll be different taking the new ball, but I've been around long enough to adapt and help the younger players,' Woakes commented. With England going 1-0 up in the three-match series, the team aims to secure a series win with Woakes at the helm.

(With inputs from agencies.)