Alex Hales Announces Shock Retirement From International Cricket

England batter Alex Hales has announced his retirement from international cricket. The opening batter opened up about his decision on social media on Friday (4th August), saying that he will now be looking forward to playing franchise cricket around the world. 

Alex Hales has been one of the finest openers to have represented England. He played quite a few match-winning knocks for the team and single-handedly won then many games. He last represented the national team in the T20 World Cup 2022. 

Alex Hales played a vital role in the tournament and was one of the main reasons behind England winning the title. He was the second leading run-getter for his team with 212 runs to his name at a rollicking strike rate of 147.22 to go with two half-centuries as well. 

Alex Hales was banned from international cricket in 2019 for drug use and was back in the English team ahead of the T20 World Cup 2022. He ended his career on a high note as his last game for the team was the final of the T20 World Cup, which he won. 

Talking about his journey for England, Alex Hales said that he has made memories that will last forever and it’s the right time for him to move on. Taking to his Instagram account, he explained: 

“Just a note to announce that I have decided to retire from international cricket.It has been an absolute privilege to have represented my country on 156 occasions across all three formats. I’ve made some memories and some friendships to last a lifetime and I feel that now is the right time to move on. 

“Throughout my time in an England shirt I’ve experienced some of the highest highs as well as some of the lowest lows. It’s been an incredible journey and I feel very content that my last game for England was winning a World Cup final.” 

I look forward to experiencing more franchise cricket around the world – Alex Hales 

Alex Hales further went on to thank those who supported him in his journey and also added that he will be playing in the T20 leagues now. He explained: 

“Throughout the ups and downs I’ve always felt a huge amount of support from my friends, family and undoubtedly the best fans in world cricket. I look forward to continuing to play for Notts and experiencing more franchise cricket around the world.”

 

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Alex Hales played 11 Tests for England, scoring 573 runs along with 5 half-centuries. He also represented the team in 70 ODIs, in which he amassed 2419 runs at an average of 37.8 to go with 6 centuries and 14 half-centuries. In the 75 T20Is, he mustered 2074 runs at a strike rate of 138.36 including 1 century and 12 half-centuries.