Chris Woakes has announced his retirement from international cricket, ending an England career spanning nearly 15 years that included two World Cup triumphs and numerous standout performances in Test matches, including recently taking to the crease with his arm in a sling. 

The 36-year-old had hoped to feature as the senior fast bowler on England’s Ashes tour this winter, but a dislocated shoulder sustained during the fifth Test against India this summer dashed those plans.

Following the decision not to renew his central contract—part of what England team director Rob Key described as the start of a “new cycle” for the Test side next year—Woakes has chosen not to pursue a recall in 2026. Instead, he will continue playing at domestic level.

Woakes, who made his England debut in 2011, took 192 wickets from 62 Tests, a place on all three honours boards at Lord’s, as well as 204 wickets from 155 caps in the white-ball formats.

Games: 217
Wickets: 396
Runs: 3705

Ashes Player of the Series
2019 & 2022 World Cup winner

After 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

“The moment has come, and I’ve decided it’s the right time for me to retire from international cricket,” declared Woakes in a statement.

“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.”