Chris Woakes has retired from international cricket. The England allrounder ended a remarkable career that spanned more than a decade. At 36, Woakes felt it was the right time to walk away.
He missed the Ashes 2025 squad with injury. His body was no longer the same. In his farewell message, Woakes admitted he was ready to step aside.
A Reliable Allrounder
Woakes was never flashy. But he was always reliable.
Since his debut in 2011, he became one of England’s most trusted cricketers. He could swing the new ball, bowl tight spells in the middle overs, and score crucial lower-order runs.
His stats speak for themselves:
- 62 Tests, 122 ODIs, 33 T20Is
- 396 wickets in all formats
- 173 ODI wickets – 5th most for England
- A Test century at Lord’s in 2018
Numbers prove his consistency. But his value was beyond stats. Woakes was the player who always delivered in pressure moments.
World Cup Glory
Woakes was a two-time World Cup winner.
In 2019, he was at his best. His 3 for 20 against Australia in the World Cup semi-final gave England the ticket to the final. They went on to win their first ODI World Cup at Lord’s.
In 2022, he lifted the T20 World Cup in Australia. Once again, he gave England early breakthroughs with the ball. Two formats, two medals, same impact.
Ashes Heroics
Ashes cricket brought out the fighter in him.
In 2023, Woakes returned to the Test side mid-series. Many doubted him. But he silenced critics. He swung the ball, took key wickets, and scored vital runs. His all-round show earned him the Player of the Series award.
That Ashes proved his resilience. Even late in his career, Woakes could still rise when England needed him.
Respect From Teammates
Woakes may not have been as celebrated as Ben Stokes, James Anderson, or Stuart Broad. Yet, in the dressing room, he was admired deeply.
Teammates often called him “Mr. Dependable.” Coaches praised his work ethic and calm personality. Fans loved his quiet but impactful style.
End of an Era
With Woakes retiring, England loses a complete cricketer. A bowler who could swing it both ways. A batsman who could steady an innings. A teammate every captain wanted.
His journey ends with two World Cups, 396 wickets, and endless memories.
Chris Woakes retires as one of England’s most underrated legends.
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https://www.espncricinfo.com/story/chris-woakes-announces-england-retirement-ashes-omission-1504920
