Chris Woakes Retires: England Cricket Legend Bids Farewell

England all-rounder Chris Woakes has announced his retirement from international cricket, bringing to a close a distinguished 15-year career representing the Three Lions. The 36-year-old made the announcement on Monday via social media, stating, “The moment has come, and I've decided the time is right for me to retire from international cricket.”

Woakes reflected on his career, saying, “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 look back on with greatest pride.” 

Since making his international debut in Australia in 2011, Woakes played 217 matches across all formats. Over his career, he claimed 396 wickets and scored 3,705 runs, establishing himself as a dependable seam-bowling all-rounder. His final appearance for England came during the ICC World Test Championship series against India earlier this summer, where he famously batted with a shoulder dislocation, his arm in a sling, demonstrating remarkable resilience and commitment.

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Woakes was a key figure in England’s 2019 Cricket World Cup victory, contributing 134 runs and taking 16 wickets during the tournament, including three crucial wickets in the final against New Zealand. He also played an instrumental role in England’s T20 World Cup triumph in Australia in 2022. In addition, he delivered memorable performances in Ashes series, including the 2023 Men’s Ashes where he was named Player of the Series.

Richard Thompson, Chairperson of the England and Wales Cricket Board, praised Woakes for his dedication and sportsmanship. “The images of Chris walking out to bat with his arm in a sling to try and win a Test match this summer reflected how much he cared about playing for his country and being the best teammate he could be,” Thompson said. He added, “Chris has been a gentleman off the field, with the skills and fierce determination to win on it. From brilliance with the new ball in the 2019 World Cup and winning the T20 World Cup in 2022, to his series-changing impact in the 2023 Men’s Ashes, we are indebted to have players like Chris represent England.”

Woakes’ retirement marks the end of a remarkable era in English cricket. His contributions with both bat and ball, combined with his leadership and dedication, have left an indelible mark on the sport, inspiring teammates and cricket fans alike.