After 14 years of playing for his country in all three formats, England all-rounder Chris Woakes has announced his retirement from international cricket.
After struggling to recover from a shoulder dislocation sustained in the fifth Test match against India at the end of July, Woakes, 36, was left out of England’s Ashes squad last week. The managing director of England Men, Rob Key, later stated on Instagram that Woakes “isn’t in our plans… at all” and that he has now made the decision to retire.
In a bid to assist achieve a series-sealing victory on the fifth day, he walked out to bat at No. 11 in the Oval Test against India with his arm in a sling. This was his final act while wearing an England shirt after 62 Tests, 122 ODIs, and 33 T20Is.
“The moment has come, and I’ve decided that the time is right for me to retire from international cricket,” he said.
“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 team-mates over the last 15 [14] years, many of whom have become lifelong friends, are things I’ll look back on with the greatest pride.
“Making my debut in 2011 in Australia seems like yesterday, but time flies when you’re having fun. Lifting two World Cups and being part of some amazing Ashes series is something I never thought was possible, and those memories and celebrations with my team-mates will stay with me forever.
“To my Mum and Dad, my wife Amie and our girls Laila and Evie, thank you for your unwavering love, support and sacrifices over the years. None of this would have been possible without you.
“To the fans, especially the Barmy Army, thank you for the passion, the cheers and the belief. To my coaches, team-mates and everyone behind the scenes both with England and Warwickshire, who helped me play for my country – your guidance and friendship has meant the world.
“I look forward to continuing to play county cricket and exploring more franchise opportunities in the near future.”