England all-rounder Chris Woakes announces retirement from international cricket, bringing an end to a memorable 15-year journey. The 36-year-old Warwickshire paceman, who made his Test debut in 2013, confirmed the news via Instagram and X, expressing gratitude to teammates, coaches, and fans.
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Woakesy’s Farewell
Throughout Chris Woakes’ career, he has been a consistent presence in England cricket, often underappreciated but always dependable. His decision comes just ahead of the highly anticipated England 2025 Ashes squad, leaving fans reflecting on his repeated contributions, moments of sheer bravery, and quiet determination on the field.
Why Chris Woakes Decided to Retire?
The timing of Chris Woakes announces retirement was shaped by a combination of injury, selection, and personal reflection. After England indicated he was no longer part of the national setup, Woakes faced a choice: wait for opportunities that might never come or step away gracefully. Being left out of the England 2025 Ashes squad was reportedly a key factor in his decision. At 36, the fast bowler recognised the physical demands of the game and the challenge of maintaining performance at the highest level.
Pleasure has been all mine. No regrets 🏴 pic.twitter.com/kzUKsnNehy
— Chris Woakes (@chriswoakes) September 29, 2025
Woakes’ final Test against India at the Oval also played a role. In a show of determination, he walked out to bat with a dislocated shoulder, arm in a sling. Though he did not face a ball, the moment symbolised his unwavering commitment to his team. The injury ruled him out of consideration for the upcoming Ashes tour to Australia, effectively bringing Chris Woakes’ career to a close.
🚨 BREAKING NEWS 🚨
Chris Woakes has retired from international cricket.
Thanks for the memories, Wizard ❤️ pic.twitter.com/IVsCEiZGsy
— England’s Barmy Army 🏴🎺 (@TheBarmyArmy) September 29, 2025
Reflecting on his journey, Woakes shared that representing England had been a dream since his childhood, and retiring now felt like the right moment to focus on county cricket and franchise cricket opportunities.
“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 team-mates over the last 15 years, many of whom have become lifelong friends, are things I’ll look back on with the greatest pride.” Said Woakes.
An Underrated Career of Consistency and Impact
Throughout Chris Woakes’ career, he was frequently considered an underrated player, quietly delivering match-winning performances without dominating headlines. In 62 Tests, he took 192 wickets and scored over 2,000 runs at an average of 25.11, proving his value as a genuine all-rounder.
🏴 Games: 2️⃣1️⃣7️⃣
☝️ Wickets: 3️⃣9️⃣6️⃣
🏏 Runs: 3️⃣7️⃣0️⃣5️⃣🏅 Ashes Player of the Series
🏆 2019 & 2022 World Cup winnerAfter 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
Beyond Tests, Woakes featured in 122 ODIs and 33 T20 internationals, including playing a key role in England’s 2019 World Cup triumph. His ability to swing the ball in English conditions and stabilise innings with the bat made him an invaluable member of the squad.
Despite often being overshadowed by England’s legendary pace duo, James Anderson and Stuart Broad, Woakes consistently contributed with both bat and ball. His record against India is particularly notable, with 34 wickets in 26 innings and 384 runs in 20 innings, including a top score of 137*. Chris Woakes announces retirement, leaving behind a legacy of professionalism, teamwork, and resilience qualities consistently praised by teammates and cricket analysts.
A career of incredible moments and memories 👏
You were the best of us. Thank you, Woaksey! ❤️ pic.twitter.com/GxMlhiWtb8
— England Cricket (@englandcricket) September 29, 2025
Woakes’ influence extended beyond numbers. Rob Key, managing director of men’s cricket at the ECB, described him as “one of the finest people to have played the game,” highlighting his positive impact in the dressing room. ECB chairman Richard Thompson also called him “a gentleman off the field, with the skills and fierce determination to win on it,” underscoring why Chris Woakes’ career left a lasting impression.
A Memorable Final Match Against India
Chris Woakes announces retirement after a memorable final international match against India at the Oval, which perfectly captured his courage and team-first approach. Walking out to bat with a dislocated shoulder in a sling, he immediately earned admiration from fans and teammates. Though he did not face a delivery, the act symbolised his dedication to England and his commitment to the team above personal comfort.
Chris Woakes has retired from international cricket. 🫡 A brilliant England career comes to an end. pic.twitter.com/6wUbQrN0Pm
— BBC Sport (@BBCSport) September 29, 2025
In his last series against India, Woakes’ performances were also significant. He scored 384 runs at an average of 24.00 in 20 innings and took 34 wickets at 39.4, testing himself against one of the world’s strongest batting line-ups. From swinging the ball to holding the lower order together with crucial runs, Chris Woakes’ career highlights against India offered plenty of memorable moments.
Chris Woakes’ final act in international cricket for England. Warrior ❤️ pic.twitter.com/lt6tHdUKkX
— Sky Sports Cricket (@SkyCricket) September 29, 2025
Walking away after this Test, Woakes departs as a quintessential all-rounder. His retirement coincides with England preparing for the first Ashes Test in Perth on November 21. While the England 2025 Ashes squad moves forward without him, the lessons of perseverance, teamwork, and understated brilliance he leaves behind will continue to inspire future generations of cricketers.
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Chris Woakes’ Most Remarkable Performances
In ODIs, Woakes was a consistent performer during England’s 2019 World Cup campaign. His ability to bowl economically and take wickets at crucial moments provided balance and flexibility for the team. T20 internationals highlighted his versatility, with clever bowling variations and timely batting contributions in the lower order. Chris Woakes announces retirement, leaving fans with lasting memories of a player who excelled when the spotlight wasn’t on him.
What a career. 🏴 Chris Woakes has retired from international cricket 👏 pic.twitter.com/AEmIlfJxOs
— Test Match Special (@bbctms) September 29, 2025
Over the course of Chris Woakes’ career, he delivered several standout performances that showcased both skill and determination. His unbeaten 137* against India in 2014 remains one of his most iconic innings, rescuing England from a precarious position and demonstrating his ability to handle pressure with composure. His bowling feats, such as 4/55 against India, were equally impactful, keeping England competitive in high-stakes matches.
This was Chris Woakes’ final day as an England cricketer 🫡 pic.twitter.com/iaMFb3R9hO
— ESPNcricinfo (@ESPNcricinfo) September 29, 2025
One of Woakes’ defining qualities was his ability to rise to the occasion. Whether against top-tier opponents like India or during World Cup fixtures, he displayed a mix of grit, intelligence, and athleticism. These remarkable performances reflect both his individual skill and his understanding of team dynamics, which made him an invaluable member of England cricket for over a decade.
