Chris Woakes: England's Underrated All-Rounder

Chris Woakes is one of English cricket's most consistent performers and arguably one of the most underrated cricketers England has produced in recent decades. A right-arm swing bowler and capable lower-order batter, Woakes is the archetypal English conditions bowler — at home in England, he is among the best in the world; away from home, the absence of swing makes him a less threatening proposition.

Home Bowling Average

Woakes's home Test bowling average is one of the best of any England bowler in history — consistently below 22 in home matches. In English conditions, where the cloud cover and humid air assist swing bowling, his precise length and his ability to move the ball both ways late make him virtually unplayable on certain days. He has taken multiple five-wicket hauls in home conditions against the best batting sides.

2019 World Cup Hero

Woakes was a key member of England's 2019 Cricket World Cup winning side. He contributed with the bat and the ball through the tournament, and his performance in the semi-final against Australia — where England produced a clinical display — was central to England reaching the final. He was part of cricket's most extraordinary final against New Zealand.

Batting Contribution

Woakes is a genuine lower-order batter who averages over 25 in Tests and has scored multiple half-centuries. He is one of England's most reliable number eight batters, able to play sensibly in difficult situations and accelerate when needed. His partnership record with Stuart Broad and James Anderson makes him an important contributor to England's batting depth.