The 36-year-old allrounder had hoped to play a senior role in this winter’s Ashes tour, but a dislocated shoulder sustained during the fifth Test against India ended those chances.
With his central contract not renewed as England prepares for a “new cycle” from next summer, Woakes has chosen not to push for a return in 2026 and will instead finish his career in domestic cricket.
“The moment has come and I’ve decided that the time is right for me to retire from international cricket,” said Woakes in a statement on Monday. “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.”
Known affectionately as “the nicest man in cricket” and nicknamed “The Wizard” by teammates, Woakes retires with 192 wickets from 62 Tests, a place on all three Lord’s honours boards, the Compton-Miller medal from the 2023 Ashes, and 204 wickets from 155 limited-overs appearances.
A key figure in England’s 2019 World Cup-winning side and part of the squad that lifted the T20 World Cup in 2022, Woakes leaves behind a legacy of consistency, humility, and success.
