Massive Setback! England Lose Star Fast Bowler Just Before The Ashes

England have received a significant blow ahead of the all-important Ashes series against Australia, Chris Woakes, the all-round player for England, has announced a shocking retirement from international cricket. After making his Test debut in 2013, the 36-year-old played 217 times for England, winning the World Cup in 2019 and the T20 World Cup three years later.

The 36-year-old was left out of England national cricket team for the forthcoming Ashes down under, which begins on November 21, and the decision followed shortly after. Playing for the national team for over 15 years, the 36-year-old made his debut in a Twenty20 International match against Australia in 2011. He was last seen in the ENG vs IND Test series 2025.

Chris Woakes Retirement: England Star Quits International Cricket

Woakes has been a key part of England's line-up over the years across various formats of the game. He has loads of experience of bowling in important facets of the game, especially with the new ball. He also has the ability to contribute with the bat, making him the perfect all-rounder across various formats.

During the summer's fifth Test match against India, Chris Woakes injured his shoulder. He was in no position to play the game further. However, he came back to bat with a broken shoulder and despite the brutal injury. Over the course of his career, he showed why he is one of the best all-rounders in the world.

Chris Woakes international retirement is a blow to England's chances as he is one of their most experienced bowlers. He said that it was always his desire to play for his country. He wrote that he will be extremely proud of the connections he made with teammates, the experience, and the honor of wearing the Three Lions. “The moment has come, and I’ve decided that the time is right for me to retire from international cricket. 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,” Woakes wrote.

Chris Woakes International Career

Chris Woakes played in 33 T20Is, 122 ODIs, and 62 Test matches until his international career ended. His arm was in a sling when he went to the crease at No. 11 in the Oval Test, his final appearance for England. He was unable to assist England in winning the series, though. Woakes took 204 wickets in limited-overs internationals and 192 wickets in Test matches.

His inclusion on all three of the Lord's honors boards is a unique accomplishment as it is the premier cricket stadium in England. He also had a part in England's victories in the 2019 World Cup and the 2022 T20 World Cup. At a strike rate of 47 and an average of 23.47, the right-arm bowler claimed 148 wickets in home Test matches.

Despite starting the match with a 2-0 deficit, he notably collected 19 wickets to help England rescue a tie. He hit seven fifties in Test matches, including a career-high 137* against India in 2018. The all-round player, who has already committed to MI Emirates for the upcoming ILT20 season, stated that he will continue to play in the County Championship and look at options in franchise cricket.