Alex Hales Is A World-Class Player, He Deserves A Second Chance - Chris Woakes

English batsman Alex Hales’ ban before the 2019 World Cup due to a failed drug test is one of the moments that hasn’t sunk in yet. Hales, who was named in England’s provisional 15-man squad for the mega event at home tested positive for a recreational drug due to which he was forced out of it. Nevertheless, his fellow teammate, Chris Woakes, backed him by saying Hales deserved a second chance.

Also Read: PCB Chief Wasim Khan Not Keen To Use England Tour As A Means For 2022 Return Trip

One of the most destructive batsmen in the white-ball format, Alex Hales, has been the reserve opening batsman for England in limited-overs. In 130 white-ball fixtures for England, the 31-year old has over 3000 runs with healthy strike rates in both the forms. Hence, his omission couldn’t have been an easy decision for the English selectors.

As far as seamer Chris Woakes is concerned, he doesn’t know the fate of Hales; however, he supports his comeback in the side. He expects that the majority would have the kind of views he does. Woakes went on to believe that people deserve a second shot as long as they have rectified themselves.

“I don’t 100 per cent know what will happen but I’d be happy to see Alex back in England colours. I would imagine the majority would have the kind of views I have given. People deserve a second chance, as long as they’ve gone away and worked on a few things. I don’t know why anyone would see that any differently.” Woakes, who returned to training, said as quoted by ESPN Cricinfo.

Alex Hales is a world-class player: Chris Woakes

Woakes, a pivotal member of England’s World Cup-winning squad furthermore said that he had played a lot of cricket with Hales as a youngster. The 31-year old spoke highly of his team culture, claiming that they support players and take them in the right direction.

Therefore, if a ‘world-class’ player like Alex Hales can do that, he deserves to be back in the squad. Earlier, England’s limited-overs captain Eoin Morgan also supported Hales by saying that the door is open for him if he can win back the management’s trust.

“I think if people have gone away for a time and worked on their weaknesses, they should be allowed a second chance. Alex is a world-class player. I have played a lot of cricket with him from a young age actually. We have a culture and an environment in the England squad that we all try and pull in the right direction. If Alex is willing to do that then I imagine everyone would be happy to see him back playing for England.” the Birmingham-born added.

Also Read: Pakistan Players To Fly In Charter Airplanes Sponsored By ECB For England Tour