In a resounding triumph, Chris Woakes, the standout performer of the Ashes series, has added another feather to his cap by securing the ICC Men’s Player of the Month accolade for July 2023. Outshining strong contenders Zak Crawley and Bas de Leede, Woakes has emerged as the rightful recipient of this prestigious honour.
Woakes delighted at his achievement
Reflecting on his achievement, Woakes expressed his gratitude, acknowledging the collective effort that fueled his success. “It’s very nice to have been voted ICC Men’s Player of the Month for July. Everything we did in the Ashes was a team effort, and no individual awards would be possible without everyone else doing their job, but it’s always nice to be recognized, especially when it’s a public vote,” Woakes humbly remarked.
He continued, “It was a great series, and I’m just very happy that it captured the imagination and attention of the public so much. It was great to have so much support and it was a hugely enjoyable series to play in.”
Woakes’s journey in the Ashes was nothing short of remarkable. Initially absent from the starting XI in the first two matches, he made a remarkable comeback in the third Test at Headingley, a turning point that defined England’s resurgence. With the series teetering on a precipice and England trailing 2-0, Woakes stepped onto the field and showcased his mettle.
Chirs Woakes was the Player of the Series during Ashes
In a stunning display, Woakes clinched three wickets in each inning, dismissing key figures like Marnus Labuschagne and Usman Khawaja. However, his impact extended beyond his bowling prowess. Amid a nail-biting chase, Woakes contributed an invaluable 32* that secured England’s victory and breathed life back into the series.
The triumphs continued as Woakes marked his return with a formidable five-wicket haul during the first innings of the fourth Test. While rain thwarted the final day’s play, his prowess was undeniable. The Manchester Test ended in a draw, but Woakes’s reputation soared.
His tour de force culminated with a stellar performance in the final Test at The Oval, where he claimed the Player of the Match title. Displaying his versatility, Woakes impressed with both bat and ball. He orchestrated a vital run-a-ball 36 in the first innings and then proceeded to orchestrate a sensational seven-wicket haul, facilitating England’s dramatic series-levelling triumph.
Despite participating in only three matches, Woakes emerged as the Player of the Series, securing a staggering 19 wickets with an average of 18.15. His multifaceted contributions, encompassing both bowling prowess and crucial runs, solidified his position as a true cricket luminary.
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