During the third and final Test between England and Sri Lanka at The Oval in London on Saturday, September 7, England pacer Chris Woakes unexpectedly had to switch to spin bowling. The unusual decision came after the umpires brought out the light meter due to worsening weather conditions, allowing play to continue only if England used spin bowling.

Under Law 2.7.1, relating to light and weather conditions, "it is solely for the umpires together to decide whether either conditions of ground, weather or light or exceptional circumstances mean that it would be dangerous or unreasonable for play to take place." The law further clarifies that conditions should not be considered dangerous simply because they are not ideal.

Under the rules, Woakes could either leave the field or continue bowling, but only with spin. Woakes chose to stay, much to the amusement of his teammates and fans. England’s regular captain Ben Stokes was visibly stunned, placing his hands on his head in disbelief, while Joe Root couldn’t help but grin as Woakes, known for his pace, attempted to bowl spin.

The temporary spinner bowled four deliveries, conceding six runs, before conditions improved enough for the game to resume with pace bowling.

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