England's Pace Dilemma

Kane Williamson entered his 103rd Test with an enviable reputation. Ranked fifth among batters with the best conversion rate for turning fifty-plus scores into centuries, he sat between Virat Kohli in fourth and Garry Sobers in sixth. The stage seemed set for Williamson to deliver Test century number 33, as he coasted to 50 runs and crossed the 9,000 career run milestone on the third evening. The odds, his form, and his technique all pointed to a momentous innings, one that could overturn England's 151-run lead with ease.

But by stumps, the game had taken a dramatic turn. New Zealand found themselves six wickets down with a mere four-run lead, and the reason was simple: Williamson was no longer at the crease. After expertly navigating a barrage of short balls, he was undone by Chris Woakes, who trapped him lbw on 61. It marked a pivotal moment, as Sobers reclaimed his spot in the top five conversion rates. The dismissal dampened the mood at Hagley Oval, though the English contingent on the grass banks erupted in celebration. When Tom Blundell fell shortly after, Harry Brook aptly described it as "a dagger to their heart."

Chris Woakes: A Quiet Redemption

Woakes, who had gone wicketless in the first innings, found redemption in the second. His dismissal of Tom Latham set the tone, and by the end of his spell, he had claimed three crucial scalps, including half of New Zealand’s typically resilient top six. The pitch, less favourable to bowlers than during his first 20 overs, seemed to bring out the best in him.

This performance was particularly meaningful for Woakes, whose overseas Test career has been under scrutiny. A year earlier, during his standout performance in the Ashes, he candidly acknowledged that his touring days might be limited, remarking that his "away record speaks for itself." Many assumed his omission from the India tour earlier this year signalled the end. However, his strong showing during the English summer, with 24 wickets at an average of 20.25, earned him another chance.

Though Saturday’s (November 30th) spell added a modest improvement to his overseas stats—41 wickets at 50.90 across 22 matches—the conversation about his long-term role is far from over. With replacements emerging, including those who bowled alongside him, Woakes’ place in England’s future plans hangs in the balance.

Brydon Carse: England’s Rising Star

While Woakes offered control and experience, Brydon Carse brought raw pace and aggression. On a day when he terrorized the New Zealand batters, Carse solidified his reputation as England's most impactful bowler this winter. Having already taken four wickets in the first innings, Carse continued his dominance on day three, consistently troubling Williamson. One rising delivery even struck the badge of Williamson’s helmet, a moment the batter later described as evidence of Carse’s "heavy" bowling.

Carse’s ability to create opportunities every ball has been lauded by teammates. Brook praised his presence on the field, noting that Carse always seems on the verge of taking a wicket. His dismissals of Devon Conway, Rachin Ravindra, and Glenn Phillips highlighted his ability to exploit both pace and subtle variations.

The All-Round Edge

Carse’s batting could be another factor in England’s decision-making. His quickfire 33 not out, which included several towering sixes, showcased his ability to bolster the lower order. Combined with Gus Atkinson’s explosive 48 from 36 balls, England’s tail displayed rare depth and firepower. If Ben Stokes continues to bat at No. 7, the lower half of the lineup could become a potent weapon, reducing the reliance on Woakes’ all-round capabilities.

The Future of England’s Attack

Woakes’ contributions remain valuable, but England’s future pace attack appears to be taking shape. Carse, with his speed and versatility, and Atkinson, with his growing prowess as a lower-order batter, represent a new era of English cricket. Decisions about Woakes’ role may not be urgent, but they loom large, particularly with the challenges of India and another Ashes series on the horizon.

For now, the blend of experience and emerging talent has put England in control of this first Test. The combination of past, present, and future has created a seamless synergy, leaving England well-placed to secure a victory while the debate about Woakes' legacy quietly simmers in the background.