Ben Stokes backs Chris Woakes to fill James Anderson’s shoes

England Test captain Ben Stokes has expressed confidence that Chris Woakes can fill the void left by James Anderson, who recently retired from Test cricket.

Anderson ended his red-ball career after the first Test match against the West Indies at Lord’s, with an impressive 704 wickets, the most by a fast bowler in Test cricket history and the third-highest total overall.

Stuart Broad also retired from Test cricket during the 2023 Ashes series. With the departure of both Anderson and Broad, who claimed 1,308 wickets between them, England are set for a new era in their bowling line-up.

The upcoming second Test against the West Indies at Trent Bridge, starting on July 18, will be a historic moment. It will be the first time since 2012 that England have played a home Test without Anderson or Broad. Chris Woakes is expected to lead the bowling attack in what will be his 50th Test match.

Speaking at a pre-match press conference, Stokes said: “I see it as an opportunity for someone like Woakesy to take a more leading role in the bowling unit. We’re so used to Jimmy and Broady doing that, so this is a great opportunity for him. He’s a very experienced player and a phenomenal performer, particularly in England.”

Stokes praised Woakes’ experience and achievements, adding: “It’s great to have him leading the attack and 50 caps is a huge honour.”

In addition to Woakes, Stokes also relies on Gus Atkinson and Mark Wood to bolster the bowling attack. Atkinson made a remarkable debut, taking 12 wickets, and Wood is known for his incredible pace.

“It’s very exciting, the prospect of seeing Gus Atkinson bowling at one end and Mark Wood at the other. Look at the way Gus bowled last week, it’s not just about the 12 wickets, it’s about finding another bowler who can bowl between 87 and 90mph,” Stokes said.

Stokes also highlighted Wood’s impact during the Ashes last summer, where he took 14 wickets in three games.

“Woody is someone who had an incredible summer in the Ashes last year. He was a massive player for us with a massive impact and everyone knows why – because of his speed,” he concluded.