New Delhi, Sep 29 (NationPress) - England allrounder Chris Woakes has officially declared his retirement from international cricket effective immediately. He mentioned that he will continue to participate in county cricket and explore future franchise opportunities.

At the age of 36, Woakes has played in 217 matches for England since his debut in 2013. Notably, he took three crucial wickets at Lord's against New Zealand, contributing to England's triumph in the 2019 ICC Men's World Cup.

Woakes was also a vital part of England's 2022 World Cup victory, where they clinched the ICC Men's T20 World Cup by defeating Pakistan in Melbourne.

“The moment has come, and I've decided that the time is right for me to retire from international cricket,” Woakes expressed in a statement he shared on X.

“Playing for England was a childhood dream, and I feel extremely fortunate to have fulfilled that dream. Representing England, donning the Three Lions, and sharing the field with teammates over the last 15 years, many of whom have become lifelong friends, are memories I cherish with utmost pride.

“My debut in 2011 in Australia feels like just yesterday, but time flies when you’re having fun. Lifting two World Cups and being part of thrilling Ashes series is something I never imagined was achievable, and those memories will remain with me forever.

“To my Mum and Dad, my wife Amie, and our daughters Laila and Evie, thank you for your unwavering support and sacrifices throughout the years. None of this would have been possible without you.

“To the fans, my coaches, teammates, and everyone behind the scenes - both with England and Warwickshire, who supported me in representing my country - your guidance and friendship have meant everything to me.

“I look forward to continuing my journey in county cricket and exploring more franchise opportunities soon,” he concluded.

In Test matches, he has participated in 62 games, claiming 192 wickets, including five five-wicket hauls, and scored a Test century against India at Lord's in 2018.

In One Day Internationals, he has taken 173 wickets in 122 matches, and in 33 T20 Internationals, he has secured 31 wickets.

ECB Chair, Richard Thompson, remarked, "The image of Chris walking out to bat with his arm in a sling this summer highlights his commitment to playing for his country and being the best teammate he could be.

“He has been a true gentleman off the field, exhibiting the skills and fierce determination to excel on it, consistently rising to the occasion on the biggest stages with both bat and ball. There are countless memorable moments, from his brilliance in the 2019 World Cup to winning the T20 World Cup in 2022 and his series-changing impact in the 2023 Men’s Ashes, earning him the Player of the Series accolade.

“We are grateful to have players like Chris representing England. I want to extend my gratitude and congratulations to him for all that he has accomplished in an England shirt over the past 14 years.”

vi/bc