“He’s gone through a tough time with the loss of his dad; it’s right that he’s taken some time away.”
The Bears, winners of the Blast in 2014, are sixth in North Group with two wins from their four games so far.
Woakes – who has played more than 200 games for England in all formats – has replaced Aamir Jamal in the Bears squad to face second-placed Yorkshire, who are likely to have Joe Root in their side.
“T20 cricket is a volatile beast. You have to keep calm keep, maintain belief and work on things that give you the best chance of long-term success,” added Robinson.
“We’ve won two, lost two. There’s a whole campaign to develop.”