Chris Woakes announces England retirement after Ashes omission
Key Takeaways
- Chris Woakes announced his retirement from all forms of international cricket after a 14-year career with England.
- His final act was batting with an arm sling in the Oval Test against India, following a shoulder injury sustained earlier in the match.
- Woakes was a double World Cup winner (2019 and 2022) and was England's Player of the Series in the 2023 Ashes.
- He retires with 396 international wickets, placing him eighth on England's all-time list across formats.
- Woakes expressed gratitude to his family, teammates, and fans, and plans to continue playing county and franchise cricket.
England all-rounder Chris Woakes has officially announced his retirement from international cricket, bringing a close to a distinguished 14-year career across all three formats. His final appearance was a poignant moment, batting at No. 11 with his arm in a sling during the Oval Test against India. Woakes reflected on his journey with great pride, highlighting his aspirations of playing for England since childhood and cherishing memories like lifting two World Cups and participating in Ashes series. A key figure in England's white-ball success, he was instrumental in the 2019 World Cup victory and was named Player of the Series during the 2023 Ashes. Despite often playing behind established stars like Anderson and Broad, Woakes secured a strong legacy, finishing eighth on England's all-time wicket-takers list across formats. He confirmed he will continue playing county cricket and explore franchise opportunities.
