Last updated on Monday, 29/09/2025 at 08:07 PM
Chris Woakes retirement from international cricket has been officially announced today, marking the end of a distinguished career spanning over a decade with the England team. This major England cricket retirement news follows the 36-year-old all-rounder’s decision to step away from international duties after representing his country in 217 international appearances across all formats.
The Warwickshire captain made the announcement through the official retirement announcement on social media, expressing gratitude for his international career that began in 2011.
Key Highlights
- Chris Woakes retires with 396 international wickets across Test, ODI and T20I formats
- The all-rounder scored 3,705 runs in international career spanning 14 years
- His Test career included 62 matches with 192 wickets and 2,034 runs
- Woakes ODI retirement ends 122-match career with 173 wickets and 1,524 runs
- Played 33 T20I matches with 31 wickets and 147 runs
- Chris Woakes last match came during England’s Test series against India at The Oval
Distinguished International Career
Chris Woakes made his international career debut in 2011 during England’s tour of Australia and quickly established himself as one of England’s premier pace-bowling all-rounders. His journey, which began during his formative years as detailed in his Chris Woakes journey from childhood to cricket stardom, showcased remarkable consistency across formats.
The Birmingham-born cricketer’s career statistics reflect his versatility and reliability. In Test career appearances, he maintained a bowling average of 29.61, making him invaluable in home conditions. His record at Lord’s stands out with 36 wickets at an average of 14.38 from eight Tests.
Impact on England Cricket Team
Woakes retirement announcement creates a significant void in England’s bowling attack following his omission from the 2025/26 Ashes squad. This England cricket retirement news means the England cricket team loses a versatile all-rounder who contributed consistently across formats.
Cricket administrators will likely review player replacement protocols as they plan for future series without Woakes’ experience and skillset in both Test career and limited-overs cricket.
Career Achievements and Legacy
Throughout his international career, Woakes demonstrated exceptional performance as a dual World Cup winner. His bowling average and match-winning capabilities were highlighted during England’s victorious campaigns, with his career statistics showing remarkable consistency.
Notable achievements include:
- Two-time World Cup winner (2019 ODI, 2022 T20)
- 192 Test career wickets with best match figures of 11/102 against Pakistan
- Test century (137 not out) against India at Lord’s in 2018
- Only cricketer to achieve specific Lord’s Honours Board feat with runs and wickets
- Player of the Match in 2019 World Cup semi-final against Australia
ODI Career and Limited-Overs Success
Woakes ODI retirement concludes a remarkable limited-overs journey where he claimed 173 wickets from 122 matches. His bowling average in ODI cricket remained consistently competitive, making him a key component of England’s white-ball success.
The all-rounder role he fulfilled in ODI cricket was instrumental during England’s 2019 World Cup triumph, where his contributions with both bat and ball proved invaluable in crucial matches.
Final International Moment
Chris Woakes last match for England epitomized his dedication to the team during the fifth Test against India at The Oval. He came out to bat at number 11 with his arm in a sling after suffering a shoulder dislocation, demonstrating his commitment until the very end.
While no formal Woakes retirement speech was delivered at a press conference, his social media statement expressed heartfelt gratitude for his international career experiences and teammates who supported him throughout his journey.
Future Plans and County Cricket
Despite his international retirement, Chris Woakes confirmed his commitment to continue playing county cricket with Warwickshire County while exploring franchise cricket opportunities. This decision allows him to extend his professional career while focusing on domestic competitions.
The experienced campaigner expressed his intention to mentor younger players and contribute to county cricket development beyond his Test career conclusion.
Conclusion
Chris Woakes retirement concludes a significant chapter in England’s cricketing history. This significant England cricket retirement news concludes a Test career and international career that saw him claim 396 wickets and score 3,705 runs across 217 appearances. His legacy as one of England’s finest all-rounders, with exceptional career statistics and bowling average, remains firmly established in cricket history.
The England cricket team will miss his versatility, but Woakes’ contributions have helped build a strong foundation for future endeavors beyond his international retirement.
