Chris Woakes announces international retirement ahead of Ashes 2025-26 series

England veteran all-rounder Chris Woakes on Monday, September 29, officially announced his retirement from international cricket. The all-rounder, who won the two World Cups with the national cricket team, made the decision after being excluded from the squad for the upcoming Ashes series in Australia.

Woakes dislocated his shoulder during the fifth Test against India in the summer. He has decided not to make an international comeback. With his central contract not renewed and England planning a fresh Test cycle next summer, he will conclude his career playing domestic cricket rather than making a comeback.

Chris Woakes Announces His Retirement From International Cricket

Chris Woakes described playing for the national team as a childhood dream. He expressed gratitude for the experience, the honor of wearing the Three Lions, and the friendships formed with teammates, which he will remember with immense pride.

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"The moment has come and I’ve decided that the time is right for me to retire from international cricket,” said Woakes in a statement on Monday.

“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 teammates over the last 15 years, many of whom have become lifelong friends, are things I’ll look back on with the greatest pride.”

🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 Games: 2️⃣1️⃣7️⃣
☝️ Wickets: 3️⃣9️⃣6️⃣
🏏 Runs: 3️⃣7️⃣0️⃣5️⃣

🏅 Ashes Player of the Series
🏆 2019 & 2022 World Cup winner

After fifteen years of dedication to the badge, we wish you all the best in your international retirement, Wizz ❤️ pic.twitter.com/1kSw9qEODU

— England Cricket (@englandcricket) September 29, 2025

Making My Debut in Australia Seems Like Yesterday - Chris Woakes

Chris Woakes recalled the joy of playing in memorable Ashes series and winning two World Cups. He thanked his family, teammates, coaches, and the Barmy Army for their support, guidance, and encouragement. The pacer stated that the experiences and celebrations will remain unforgettable.

“Making my [one-day international] debut in 2011 in Australia seems like yesterday, but time flies when you’re having fun," Woakes continued.

“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 teammates will stay with me forever.

“To my family, 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, teammates and everyone behind the scenes – both with England at Warwickshire, who helped me play for my country – your guidance and friendship has meant the world.”

Chris Woakes Last Players for England in Oval Test vs India

Chris Woakes finished his international career with 62 Tests, 122 ODIs, and 33 T20Is. He last played for England during the Oval Test, where he went to the crease at No. 11 with his arm in a sling. However, he failed to help England secure a series win.

Woakes picked up 192 wickets in Tests and 204 wickets in limited-overs internationals. He has a rare achievement of appearing on all three honours boards at Lord’s. He was also part of England’s 2019 World Cup triumph and the 2022 T20 World Cup victory.

The right-arm pacer took 148 wickets in home Tests at an average of 23.47 and a strike rate of 47. Notably, he took 19 wickets to help England salvage a draw despite joining the team 2-0 down. He registered seven fifties in Tests, with a career-best 137* against India in 2018.

Also read: 'Mohsin Naqvi took the right stand': India vs Pakistan matches ordered to be permanently banned