The fifth and final Test between England and India is set for a dramatic conclusion on Monday, with the series hanging by a thread. England require just 35 more runs to clinch a 3-1 series win, while India need four wickets to level the contest 2-2. Amid the tension, attention has turned to the status of injured all-rounder Chris Woakes, who may yet play a part despite being officially sidelined with a shoulder injury.

Woakes was spotted in full England whites in the dressing room on Day 4, his left arm in a sling after sustaining a painful shoulder injury while diving to save a boundary. The injury ruled him out of bowling duties and initially cast serious doubt over his availability for the remainder of the match. However, a twist emerged late on Sunday when Joe Root revealed that Woakes had declared himself available to bat, if needed, in the final innings.

“He’s all-in, like the rest of us,” Root said after his 39th Test century, that helped England recover from early blows. “It's been that kind of series, where guys have had to put bodies on the line. Hopefully, it doesn't get to that. But he had some throwdowns in here at one point, and he's ready if needed. He's desperate to do what it takes.”