England's Chris Woakes set to miss New Zealand Test series after undergoing knee surgery

Chris Woakes

England all-rounder Chris Woakes has been ruled out of the upcoming Test series against New Zealand after undergoing a knee surgery. He damaged his left knee during the course of his rehabilitation from a foot injury that he picked up at the World Cup.

According to the statement issued by English and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), the 26-year-old will be out for four to six weeks.

"The ECB medical team confirms that England and Warwickshire bowler Chris Woakes underwent uncomplicated keyhole surgery on his left knee for a meniscal tear earlier today. The injury occurred while undergoing rehab for his foot injury. His rehab is likely to take a further four to six weeks," the statement read.

The 26-year-old had missed England’s final World Cup game against Afghanistan and also the ongoing series against West Indies due to the foot injury, and his absence from the game is now set to be even longer with him indicating to reporters last week that he is unsure of the time he will take to recover.

Woakes has represented England in 34 ODIs picking up 47 wickets. He was a part of the team which won the Test series against India in England last year.

England are due to play New Zealand in a two-match Test series at Lord's and Headingley, starting on May 21 and May 29 respectively.

Woakes is likely to return for the following 5-match ODI series against New Zealand which will begin from June 9.