Chris Woakes Retires from International Cricket After Illustrious England Career
England all-rounder Chris Woakes has officially announced his retirement from international cricket, bringing down the curtain on a 14-year career that spanned all formats of the game. The decision follows his omission from England’s squad for this winter’s Ashes series in Australia.
The 36-year-old Warwickshire star leaves behind a remarkable legacy, having represented England in 62 Test matches, 122 One-Day Internationals (ODIs), and 33 T20 Internationals (T20Is). He was an integral part of England’s greatest modern triumphs, lifting both the 2019 ICC Cricket World Cup at Lord’s and the 2022 T20 World Cup.
A Dream Fulfilled: From Garden Cricketer to World Champion
Woakes’ journey began in 2011 when he made his England debut in a T20 match. Two years later, he featured in the final Test of the 2013 Ashes series. Over time, his consistency with both bat and ball made him one of England’s most dependable all-rounders.
Reflecting on his career, Woakes shared a heartfelt message on social media:
“Playing for England was something I aspired to do since I was a kid dreaming in the back garden. Representing England, wearing the Three Lions, and sharing the field with teammates who have become lifelong friends are things I’ll always cherish. Lifting two World Cups and being part of some unforgettable Ashes battles has been more than I ever dreamed of.”
Heroics Against India and a Brave Farewell
This summer, Woakes was part of the England team that played out a thrilling 2-2 draw against India in the Test series. His resilience was on full display during the final Test when he suffered a suspected dislocated shoulder. Despite his injury, Woakes came out to bat with his arm in a sling as England chased victory. Though he didn’t face a ball, he managed to run four crucial runs before England eventually fell short.
That act of bravery now serves as a poignant final memory of Woakes in England colours.
The Numbers Behind the Legend
Woakes’ career statistics underline his impact across all formats:
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Tests: 192 wickets at an average of 29.61, and 2,034 runs at 25.11.
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ODIs: 173 wickets and 1,524 runs.
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T20Is: 31 wickets and 147 runs.
In 2023, his outstanding performance in the Ashes earned him the Compton-Miller Medal after he took 19 wickets at an average of just 18.14 across three matches.
At Lord’s, the iconic “Home of Cricket,” Woakes etched his name into history by becoming one of only six players to score a century, take a five-wicket haul, and claim a 10-wicket match haul at the ground.
Praise From the Cricketing World
Tributes poured in from the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) and former teammates.
Rob Key, managing director of England Men’s Cricket, hailed Woakes as “one of the finest people to have played the game”, highlighting his role as a team-first cricketer alongside legends James Anderson and Stuart Broad.
ECB chair Richard Thompson also praised Woakes’ determination, recalling the unforgettable image of him walking out to bat with his arm in a sling:
“He has been a gentleman off the field and fiercely competitive on it. His ability to rise to the occasion on the biggest stages made him one of England’s most trusted players. We are deeply grateful for his service.”
The “Ultimate Team Man”
BBC chief cricket reporter Stephan Shemilt described Woakes as the “ultimate team man.” While his career coincided with England’s golden generation of bowlers—Anderson, Broad, and all-rounder Ben Stokes—Woakes carved out his own identity as one of the most reliable performers in English conditions.
His home Test bowling average of 23.87, even better than Anderson and Broad, demonstrates his effectiveness on English soil. Though his overseas record was less consistent, his contributions in home series were often match-defining.
Part of England’s Golden Era
Woakes holds the rare distinction of being among only six England players to have won both World Cups and an Ashes series. In England’s golden era of white-ball cricket, he was one of just four players to feature in both the 2019 World Cup final and the 2022 T20 World Cup final.
Beyond statistics, his humility and professionalism made him a respected figure in the dressing room. Many teammates and fans often referred to him as “the nicest man in cricket,” a reputation he carried with pride.
What’s Next for Woakes?
Although Woakes has retired from the international stage, he isn’t stepping away from cricket entirely. He confirmed plans to continue playing for Warwickshire in county cricket and will also explore opportunities in franchise leagues around the world.
This decision mirrors the path taken by several of his contemporaries, ensuring fans will still see him in action, albeit outside the England shirt.
End of an Era
Woakes’ retirement marks another milestone in the transition of England cricket. With Anderson and Broad already retired, Moeen Ali stepping away, and others like Jonny Bairstow and Jos Buttler no longer central to all formats, the squad that defined England’s last decade is fading. Only Joe Root and a few younger stars remain as long-term fixtures.
For Woakes, the ending may feel abrupt, but many believe his final act at The Oval—courageously batting with a sling—was the perfect symbol of his selfless career.
Legacy of Chris Woakes
Chris Woakes may not always have received the limelight his achievements deserved, but his career stands as a testament to consistency, courage, and character. He played his role quietly but effectively, often providing the balance England needed to compete at the highest level.
As England’s cricket landscape evolves, Woakes’ contributions will remain part of the nation’s proudest cricketing memories—World Cups lifted, Ashes battles fought, and countless moments of grit and determination.
For many fans, he will forever be remembered as the ultimate gentleman and the bravest team man England has ever produced.