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"Big Shame…," Woakes On Kohli And Rohit's Absence From India's Squad For England Tests

Aashay Chopade

Chris Woakes on Virat-Rohit Absence (Source:@ICC/X.com)Chris Woakes on Virat-Rohit Absence (Source:@ICC/X.com)

Chris Woakes is all set to play a major role for England in the Test series against India and has started his preparation with an impressive spell for England Lions. He picked three big wickets in the first innings and after the end of play, shared his views on the upcoming series.

Chris Woakes Shares His Views On Retirement Of Indian Greats And Impact On Test Series

While speaking to ESPNCricinfo, Chris Woakes stated that it is a big shame that the star players like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma would not be there in England for the Test series. Both the players decided to retire from the format during the first half of the month of May and India now have a a young squad with Shubman Gill as captain.

The English pacer mentioned that he had good battles in the past with both the players, but expressed confidence in the future generation of Indian players. He added that Indian cricket has lot of depth and they always produce good batters who can be very difficult to dislodge regardless of the conditions.

"Had some good battle with Virat and Rohit over the years and I think for the game itself, it is a big shame that they won't be there. But, Indian cricket has so much depth and players that would come in and they have very high standards to prove themselves. They will be very hard regardless of conditions, Indian batters are always very good."

Woakes also praised KL Rahul for his century on Day 1 of the 2nd unofficial Test. He revealed the ball was doing something right throughout the day and it was good to play against a quality opponent.

"KL Rahul played really well, good hundred. The wicket was doing something all day - There were periods when it was doing much but it’s always good to play against a strong opposition".

The first Test between India and England will start on June 20 at Headingley, Leeds. Woakes would be one of the critical assets for the home team and his battle with the Indian top-order could prove decisive in the outcome of the series.