• Source:JND

Chris Woakes' Retirement: England all-rounder Chris Woakes bid adieu to international cricket on Monday, officially ending an illustrious 14-year-long career with two World Cup victories (2019 ODI World Cup and 2022 T20 World Cup) in 217 international appearances for England. It is worth noting that Woakes will remain available for county cricket and franchise leagues around the globe.

Woakes' last appearance came against India during the fifth test, where he displayed unreal 'bravery' as he walked out to bat with a dislocated shoulder on the final day. Woakes received widespread appreciation for his effort as England lost the game by just 5 runs at the Oval.

Woakes announced his decision on his social media, stating, as quoted by the ICC, "The moment has come, and I have decided the time is right for me to retire from international cricket."

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He added, "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 will look back on with the greatest pride."

Woakes also said that making his debut against Australia back in 2011 "feels like yesterday".

"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 Mum and Dad, 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," he continued.

"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 and Warwickshire, who helped me play for my country - your guidance and friendship has meant the world. I look forward to continuing to play county cricket and exploring more franchise opportunities in the near future," he concluded.

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Having featured in 217 games for England across all formats of the game since his debut in 2011, Woakes amassed a total of 396 wickets, in addition to 3,705 runs with the willow. Across all formats, he is England's eighth-highest wicket-taker of all time.

Inputs from Agency