Chris Woakes, England’s seam-bowling all-rounder and a two-time World Cup winner, has announced his retirement from international cricket.
The 36-year-old, who played a pivotal role in England’s triumphs at the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup in 2019 and the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in 2022, confirmed his decision through a heartfelt post on social media.
“The moment has come, and I’ve decided the time is right for me to retire from international cricket,” Woakes wrote, reflecting on his career. “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.”
Woakes made his international debut in 2011 and went on to represent England in 217 matches across formats. During his career, he claimed 396 wickets with his sharp seam bowling and contributed 3705 runs with the bat, cementing his reputation as a dependable all-rounder.
Known for his composure under pressure, Woakes was often England’s go-to option in crucial situations, whether with the new ball or during a batting collapse.
His final international appearance came earlier this summer during the ICC World Test Championship series against India. Despite suffering a painful shoulder dislocation, Woakes displayed remarkable grit by batting on the final day with one arm in a sling, embodying his resilience and commitment to the team.
Throughout his career, Woakes was admired not only for his performances but also for his sportsmanship and professionalism. His retirement marks the end of an era for England cricket, with fans and teammates paying tribute to his contributions both on and off the field.
While stepping away from the international stage, Woakes leaves behind a legacy of determination, humility, and memorable match-winning performances that will inspire future generations.
