Introduction
England all-rounder Chris Woakes, aged 36, has officially announced his retirement from international cricket in 2025. The decision comes after he was omitted from the England squad for the 2025 Ashes series and faced ongoing struggles to regain full fitness following a dislocated shoulder. Over a distinguished career spanning 15 years, Woakes represented England across Tests, ODIs, and T20Is, earning a reputation as one of the team’s most reliable all-rounders. His retirement marks the end of an era for English cricket, leaving fans and analysts reflecting on his key contributions, including crucial wickets, match-winning performances, and consistency with the bat, as England looks ahead to the next generation of players.
Career in Brief
Woakes represented England for about 15 years, playing in 62 Tests, 122 ODIs, and 33 T20Is.
He was part of the England squads that won the 2019 Cricket World Cup (50-overs) and the 2022 T20 World Cup.
In Test cricket, he claimed 192 wickets at an average of 29.61, and also made contributions with the bat (including one Test century and multiple fifties).
Why He Retired
Woakes had been recovering from the shoulder injury he sustained during the 2025 summer Test series against India. His fitness struggles and the decision not to include him in the Ashes squad made a return difficult.
England’s management, including team director Rob Key, confirmed that Woakes was no longer part of the future plans for the national side.
Legacy & Outlook
Woakes will continue playing domestic cricket (including for Warwickshire) and may pursue franchise opportunities in T20 leagues.
His retirement marks the closing chapter of a player known for reliability, professionalism, and consistency across formats.
England’s pace and all-round resources will need to evolve, as the team transitions into a new era without one of its dependable seniormost players.
Conclusion
Chris Woakes’ retirement from international cricket marks the end of a distinguished career for one of England’s most dependable all-rounders. His contributions with both bat and ball, leadership on the field, and key performances in major tournaments have left a lasting legacy. While England will now look to build the next generation of all-rounders, fans and cricket analysts will remember Woakes for his consistency, resilience, and impact in international cricket 2025.