On Monday, pacer Chris Woakes announced his retirement from international cricket after learning he was no longer part of England’s future plans.
Woakes’s last international appearance was against India at the Oval last month. He batted one-handed with his arm in a sling after dislocating his shoulder during the match.
Although he didn’t face a ball, his team lost to India by six runs, ending the series tied 2-2.
This injury excluded him from the upcoming Ashes tour to Australia, and at 36, it marked the end of his England career.
Woakes debuted for England in Tests in 2013, taking 192 wickets in 62 matches and scoring over 2,000 runs with an average of 25.
He also played in 33 T20 internationals and 122 ODIs, contributing significantly to England’s 2019 World Cup victory.
Rob Key, director of men’s cricket at the ECB, mentioned Woakes was unlikely to return, prompting his retirement decision.
“I’ve decided it’s the right time to retire from international cricket,” Woakes shared on Instagram.
“Playing for England was a childhood dream, and I’m grateful to have fulfilled it,” he added.
“Representing England and wearing the Three Lions, alongside teammates who became lifelong friends, fills me with immense pride.”
The Warwickshire bowler plans to continue playing county cricket and explore franchise opportunities.
Key paid tribute to Woakes, calling him one of the finest people to play the game, alongside England legends James Anderson and Stuart Broad.
“He elevated every team he was part of, even before stepping onto the field,” Key said.
ECB chairman Richard Thompson praised Woakes as a “gentleman off the field with fierce determination on it.”
“His image of batting with a sling this summer showed his dedication to his country and teammates,” Thompson remarked.
England will face Australia in the first Ashes Test in Perth on November 21.
