London,sep 29
England all-rounder announced his international cricket retirement on Monday, bringing down the curtain on a 14-year-long career which saw him win two World Cup titles and feature in 217 international matches for England. The all-rounder is still open to playing county cricket and franchise cricket in several leagues worldwide.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.”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.
