England all-rounder Chris Woakes picked up 3-34 in 16 overs against Worcestershire, his first professional game in over four months.
Woakes, who suffered from an ankle injury that saw him miss the start of the summer, returned to action at Worcester earlier this week. Playing for Warwickshire, Woakes, who made eight with the bat in the first innings, was the first-change bowler after Ethan Bamber and Chris Rushworth.
He got instant success, dismissing opener Jake Libby, who was batting on 45, as Worcestershire lost their first wicket for 64. His next scalp was New Zealand international Henry Nicholls, who was sent back for eight as the side slipped to 80-2.
Match 58, Worcestershire vs Warwickshire
vs
- Ball by ball Over
The flurry of wickets continued, as Worcestershire were 88-5 at one stage, but Ethan Brookes, along with Kashif Ali, provided some resistance. Woakes provided another breakthrough, dismissing Brookes for a 43-ball 12 as Wocestershire were eventually all out for 181. Woakes fiished with 3-34 from 16 overs including seven maidens.
Woakes to play for England Lions
Woakes will test his fitness for the upcoming five-match Test series against India when he returns to action for the England Lions. The Lions are scheduled to play two "Tests" against India A from May 30. Woakes is the most experienced name in the side, which will be led by James Rew.
England skipper Ben Stokes is also likely to play in the second game against India A, from June 6. Stokes recently played the one-off Test against Zimbabwe, his first professional outing since December last year as he recovered from a hamstring injury. He picked up 2-11 and 1-41 in the two innings.
Follow Wisden for all cricket updates, including live scores, match stats, quizzes and more. Stay up to date with the latest cricket news, player updates, team standings, match highlights, video analysis and live match odds.
