Ashes 2023: They look like they would do anything for their team – Justin Langer lauds Chris Woakes and Mark Wood

Former Australian head coach has showered praise on England’s duo of Chris Woakes and Mark Wood. The pair was added to the team’s playing XI for the third Ashes Test against Australia and they played an instrumental role in the hosts’ win of three wickets at Leeds, Headingley.

While Wood took a total of seven wickets in the match, Woakes scalped a total of six wickets upon his return to the team. Wood scalped a five-wicket haul (5-34) in the first innings whereas Woakes snared three wickets each in both innings.

Furthermore, both of them made handy contributions with the bat. Wood scored a quickfire 24 off just eight balls in the first innings and then added the finishing touches with an 8-ball 16 in the second essay.

On the other hand, Woakes scored an unbeaten knock of 32 runs in the run-chase of 251 runs and added a crucial alliance of 59 runs with Harry Brook.

Justin Langer wrote in his column for the Telegraph, “Before the game I predicted he and Chris Woakes would ‘add great value to England, whose team looks very well balanced, for this Test.’ They both look like players you would love in your team. They play hard, but with a smile on their face, and they look like they would do anything for their team.”

The former Australian opener added that Wood’s extra pace helped the other England pacers from the other end.

“He was rewarded with wickets in the first innings and while he only took two in the second innings, his lion-hearted pressure benefited his partners bowling at the other end. He was a worthy man of the match. Where has he been the first two Tests?” The 52-year-old added.

Meanwhile, Langer feels Ben Stokes and Pat Cummins will be exhausted as leaders of their teams as they have to remain switched on all the time.

“Captains Stokes and Pat Cummins will be exhausted, in mind and body. Their job never stops, on and off the field. Stuart Broad and Mitchell Starc will do with the break. Ollie Robinson will as well, although from afar, he hasn’t looked in peak physical condition from the start of this series.”
Langer concluded:

“On flat pitches and under the scrutiny of an Ashes blowtorch, you can’t be anything other than supremely fit.”

The fourth Ashes Test will be played at Old Trafford from 19th July onwards.