Chris Woakes Retires from International Cricket After 14-Year Career

England all-rounder Chris Woakes has officially retired from international cricket, ending a remarkable 14-year career representing his country in Tests, One-Day Internationals (ODIs), and T20Is. The 36-year-old announced via Instagram after being left out of England’s Ashes squad last week due to a shoulder injury sustained in the summer series against India.

Woakes’ final international appearance was during the fifth Test at The Oval, where he walked to the crease at No. 11 with his arm in a sling. Despite his injury, he showed his determination to help England secure a series-clinching victory. England Men’s managing director Rob Key had previously indicated that Woakes “isn’t in our plans… at all,” which led to his decision to retire.

Woakes Reflects on a Dream Career

In his retirement statement, Woakes reflected on his journey, saying, “The moment has come, and I’ve decided that the time is right for me to retire from international cricket. Playing for England was a dream since I was a kid, and I feel incredibly fortunate to have lived that dream.”

He expressed deep gratitude to his family, teammates, coaches, and fans. “To my Mum and Dad, my wife Amie, and our girls Laila and Evie, thank you for your unwavering love, support, and sacrifices. To the Barmy Army and everyone behind the scenes with England and Warwickshire, your guidance and friendship have meant the world,” he added.

Career Highlights and Achievements

Woakes enjoyed a highly successful international career, winning two World Cups with England. He was named Player of the Series during the 2023 Ashes after returning midway through the series to help England recover from a 2-0 deficit. Across all formats, Woakes claimed 396 wickets, ranking eighth on England’s all-time list.

His ODI record is particularly impressive. With 173 wickets at an average of 30.01, he ranks fifth among English bowlers in the format. He played a crucial role in England’s 2019 World Cup-winning campaign, taking 16 wickets at 27.87, including a key 3 for 20 in the semi-final against Australia. He also contributed to England’s 2022 T20 World Cup victory in Australia.

Early Career and Test Achievements

Woakes made his international debut during the 2010-11 tour of Australia, featuring in two T20Is and three ODIs. He earned his first Player of the Match award in his second ODI at Brisbane, with figures of 6 for 45 — the second-best in England Men’s ODI history at the time.

He debuted in Tests at The Oval during the 2013 Ashes and gradually became a regular in the side after breakthrough performances in 2016, taking 34 wickets in six Tests against Sri Lanka and Pakistan. He scored his only Test century against India at Lord’s in 2018.

Following the retirements of legendary bowlers James Anderson and Stuart Broad, Woakes became the leader of England’s bowling attack in Tests, recording a productive 2024 season with 32 wickets at 24.09. Despite challenges against India in 2025, he demonstrated exceptional dedication by returning to bat at The Oval despite a serious shoulder injury.

Praise from ECB and Teammates

ECB chair Richard Thompson praised Woakes’ commitment, saying, “The images of Chris walking out to bat with his arm in a sling reflected how much he cared about playing for his country and being the best teammate he could be. He has been a gentleman off the field, with skills and fierce determination to win on it.”

Rob Key added, “Chris Woakes is one of the finest people to have played the game. An extraordinary career was carved out alongside two of England's greatest bowlers. He helped every team he played in, even before walking onto the field.”

Woakes said he looks forward to continuing county cricket and exploring more franchise opportunities around the world. He leaves a legacy of skill, leadership, and sportsmanship, remembered for his brilliant bowling, valuable batting, and inspiring dedication on the field.

Chris Woakes retires as one of England’s most respected all-rounders. His career will be remembered for World Cup triumphs, Ashes heroics, and inspiring performances across all three formats of international cricket.