England bowling all-rounder Chris Woakes announced his retirement from international cricket on Monday. The 36-year-old all-rounder last played for the English team during the fifth Test against India. He suffered a shoulder injury during the match, but came out to bat with his left arm in a sling.
Woakes was dropped from the Ashes squad recently. After the squad was announced, England men’s managing director Rob Key mentioned that Woakes was not in England’s plans at all. Woakes was the only English pacer who played all five Test matches against India.
Woakes made his international debut in 2011 in a T20I game against Australia. He last played a T20I game for England in December 2023. His ODI debut happened against Australia in 2011 as well, and his last ODI appearance came against Pakistan during the 2023 ODI World Cup. Woakes made his Test debut during the 2013 Ashes.
Woakes played 62 Test matches for England and scored 2034 runs at an average of 25.11. He took 192 wickets at an average of 29.61. In ODIs, he made 1524 runs in 122 games and took 173 wickets. He featured in 33 T20I matches and took 31 wickets.
Woakes to Continue Playing in County Cricket
“The moment has come, and I’ve decided that the time is right for me to retire from international cricket,” Woakes said in a statement. “Playing for England was something I aspired to do since I was a kid dreaming in the back garden, and I feel incredibly fortunate to have lived out those dreams. Representing England, wearing the Three Lions and sharing the field with teammates over the last 15 years, many of whom have become lifelong friends, are things I’ll look back on with the greatest pride.
“Making my debut in 2011 in Australia seems like yesterday, but time flies when you’re having fun. Lifting two World Cups and being part of some amazing Ashes series is something I never thought was possible, and those memories and celebrations with my teammates will stay with me forever.
“To my Mum and Dad, my wife Amie and our girls Laila and Evie, thank you for your unwavering love, support and sacrifices over the years. None of this would have been possible without you. To the fans, especially the Barmy Army, thank you for the passion, the cheers and the belief. To my coaches, teammates and everyone behind the scenes – both with England and Warwickshire – your guidance and friendship has meant the world.
“I look forward to continuing to play county cricket and exploring more franchise opportunities in the near future.”
Leave a Comment