The English sensation concludes an unforgettable Ashes showing with the ICC Men’s Performer of the Month accolade for July 2023.
Chris Woakes, who was celebrated as the Player of the Series in the Ashes, has clinched the title of ICC Men’s Performer of the Month for July 2023, edging out strong contenders like fellow Englishman Zak Crawley and the rising talent from Netherlands, Bas de Leede.
“It’s truly an honour to be chosen as the ICC Men’s Performer of the Month for July. Our achievements in the Ashes were the result of collective effort, and such individual accolades wouldn’t be feasible without the entire team pulling their weight. However, getting acknowledged, particularly through a public poll, always feels special,” Woakes commented regarding the distinction.
“The series was a fantastic journey, and I’m thrilled it garnered such immense public interest and admiration. The overwhelming support made it an exceptionally memorable series to participate in.”
Chris Woakes didn’t make it to the playing XI for the initial two matches, with England lagging 2-0 as they approached the third Test in Headingley. To remain in contention, England banked on the new additions to deliver promptly, and Woakes rose to the occasion.
Marking his Test cricket comeback after over a year’s hiatus, Woakes claimed three victims in both innings, notably dispatching Marnus Labuschagne and Usman Khawaja. Moreover, his decisive unbeaten 32, culminating in the victory-clinching run, rekindled England’s hopes in the series.
His stellar performance continued with Woakes achieving his fifth five-wicket milestone in Tests during the primary innings of the fourth Test. However, weather played spoilsport in the match, with rain washing away the concluding day, resulting in the Manchester Test reaching a deadlock.
Woakes wrapped up the series commendably, earning the Player of the Match title in the concluding Test at The Oval. Before unleashing his prowess with the ball, the veteran 34-year-old notched up a brisk 36 in the premier innings.
Subsequently, he secured seven dismissals with the ball, enabling England to even the series in a sensational turn of events.
Having participated in merely three matches, Woakes clinched the Player of the Series honour, boasting 19 dismissals at a commendable average of 18.15, complemented by a crucial 79 runs.”
