England all-rounder Chris Woakes officially announced his retirement from international cricket on Monday, bringing to a close a distinguished England career spanning more than 15 years.
Woakes, aged 36, confirmed in a statement via social media that he had long sensed the moment was nearing, particularly after injuries and shifting team dynamics eroded his prospects for future selection. He had been omitted from England’s Ashes squad for Australia, and his dislocated shoulder during the recent Test series against India underscored the physical toll he had endured.
“It’s been an immense honour to wear the Three Lions,” Woakes said in his retirement address. “From chasing dreams in the garden as a kid to walking out for England in all formats, I feel deeply fortunate for those years on the field and the friendships formed.” Though stepping away from international duty, he signaled his intention to continue in domestic cricket and potentially partake in franchise leagues.
Over his career, Woakes featured in 62 Test matches, claiming 192 wickets at an average around 29.61, while also contributing with the bat, including a Test century and seven half-centuries. In limited-overs cricket, he added 122 ODIs and 33 T20Is to his tally, playing a key role in England’s triumphs in the 2019 ICC ODI World Cup and the 2022 T20 World Cup.
England’s cricket authorities expressed gratitude at his professionalism and consistency. ECB leadership praised not only his performances, but his conduct off the pitch, describing him as a respected teammate and ambassador for the game.
Selectors and management had already signalled the changing of guard: England Director Rob Key had earlier affirmed that Woakes was not in their strategic plans post-Ashes. Many observers viewed the timing as natural, given Woakes’ injury struggles, England’s broader rebuilding phase, and the rise of younger bowlers seeking space.
In reflecting on his clean exit from the international stage, Woakes emphasized pride over regret. He acknowledged that every athlete faces a “tap on the shoulder” moment when the body signals the time to bow out. For England fans, he departs as a steady, unflashy workhorse who produced in all formats when needed.
While England now shifts forward with fresh talent, Woakes’ legacy remains — one grounded in resilience, integrity, and adaptability across red-ball and white-ball cricket. As he turns his focus to county and franchise opportunities, his international career will be remembered as one that bridged eras and delivered on the big stage.
