End of an Era: Woakes’ International Career Concludes

Chris Woakes, the heart of England’s white-ball dominance and a red-ball warrior, has retired from international cricket at 36. The decision follows his exclusion from England’s 2025-26 Ashes squad, closing a 14-year chapter that saw him claim 192 Test wickets, 173 ODI scalps, and pivotal roles in two World Cup triumphs.

Career Highlights

• 2019 ODI World Cup Final: Delivered the Super Over "wide" ball that became iconic in England’s historic Lord’s victory.
• 2022 T20 World Cup: Key death bowler in Australia, defending 17 runs in the semi-final vs India.
• 2023 Ashes Heroics: Won Compton-Miller Medal with 19 wickets at 18.14 despite England’s series loss.
• 2024 India Series: Battled dislocated shoulder to score 4* in final Test, epitomizing his grit.

Statistics & Legacy

Woakes’ Lord’s mastery remains unmatched: only the 6th player with a century, 5-wicket haul, and 10-wicket match haul at the Home of Cricket.

Tributes from the Cricket World

• Rob Key (ECB MD): "A gentleman who elevated every dressing room before even picking up a ball."
• Gautam Gambhir: "The man with an iron will – cricket’s bravest warrior."
• Ben Stokes: "No one put the team first like Woakesy. The ultimate glue guy."

What’s Next?

Woakes will continue playing county cricket for Warwickshire and explore franchise leagues. His final act – walking out with a sling to chase 17 runs against India – immortalized him as England’s ultimate team player. As tributes pour in, fans reminisce about his 2019 Super Over heroics and 2023 Ashes brilliance, cementing his place among England’s cricketing pantheon.