Is Chris Woakes happy that Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma will not play England-India Test? apparently not

Chris Woakes is no stranger to tormenting Indian batters in English conditions. But when asked about facing India in the upcoming five-match Test series, the senior England pacer had a surprising take. No, he’s not rubbing his hands at the thought of a Kohli- and Rohit-less India. In fact, he says it’s a “shame”.

“It’s a shame,” says Woakes

“It’s always good to come up against strong opposition going into a Test series that you know is going to be hard-fought,” Woakes told ESPNcricinfo during the India A vs England Lions game in Northampton. “We’ve had some good battles against Virat and Rohit over the years. For the game itself, it’s a shame they won’t be there.”

With both Indian legends, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, bowing out of Test cricket last month, the visitors will begin a bold new era when the series kicks off on June 20 at Headingley. Sai Sudharsan’s maiden Test call-up and Karun Nair’s superb return after eight years offer a fresh setup.

Woakes isn’t underestimating them as well. “Indian cricket has so much depth; the players who will come in, I’m sure will be of a very high standard, who have proven themselves in some way or the other,” he added.

Woakes himself looked in superb rhythm in the second unofficial Test against India A. He found both swing and seam and clinched three wickets in the first innings. All three wickets were big, with Woakes dismissing Yashasvi Jaiswal, Karun Nair and skipper Abhimanyu Easwaran. Woakes, who dismissed Kohli thrice in eight Tests and Rohit once in two, reminded everyone he’s still got it. He even admitted KL Rahul’s terrific show.

“KL played really well, good hundred, on a wicket which did a little bit all day,” he said. “There were periods where it was a bit quiet, but it was doing something for most of the day. I enjoyed all three to be honest. I felt like I could have a couple more, but pleased with how the ball came out.”