Ashes 2023: I thought Chris Woakes’ inclusion in the last 3 Tests was the change that set the scene for England – Brad Hogg

Australia’s former spinner Brad Hogg feels Chris Woakes’ inclusion in the last three Ashes Test matches was the turning point for England. After losing the first two Test matches, England added Chris Woakes to their playing XI for the third Test match at Leeds, Headingley and the all-rounder made a mark.

Woakes scalped 19 wickets in three Test matches at an impressive average of 18.16, the best for any bowler in the series. Furthermore, he played a match-winning knock of 32 runs at Leeds, Headingley to take England to a three-wicket win and added 59 runs with Harry Brook.

Woakes was brilliant for the home team on the final day of the series as he started Australia’s slide. The right-arm pacer returned with impressive figures of 4-50 to play an instrumental role in England’s 49-run win at Kennington Oval, London on Monday.

“I thought Chris Woakes’ inclusion in the last three Tests was the change that set the scene for England. He dominated with the ball with 19 wickets and the majority of those were top six batters,” Brad Hogg said on his YouTube channel.

Meanwhile, England were able to replace the ball in the second innings, and it offered more movement and swing. Hogg admitted he was not happy with the change of the ball, which worked in England’s favor.

“I was a little upset about that ball change in the fifth Test. At the end of the day, Australia had a little fortune when Mitchell Marsh got a change of ball in Headingley and got a wicket straightaway. So, you cannot complain in those instances.”

The former left-arm spinner admitted England played better cricket than Australia after the series ended in a 2-2 draw.

“I thought Ben Stokes was brilliant with his attacking style, he backs his players and if you back your players, then you are going to get results. In doing that, England played the better cricket throughout the series, they were the better team, there is no doubt about that.”

Hogg concluded by saying that England’s plans were also better than Australia’s, especially in the last three Test matches.

“I thought there was one Test where Cummins sort of lost his way a little bit, the pressure got to him and that was the fourth Test. All in all, I think England’s plans were a lot better than Australia’s.”

England will now host New Zealand whereas Australia will travel to South Africa.