England Fast Bowler Mark Wood Announces International Retirement

LONDON: England fast bowler Mark Wood has announced his retirement from international cricket, bringing an end to a career that saw him represent England across all three formats.

Wood announced his decision in a statement on social media, saying he had always tried to remain determined and return from injuries to prove his critics wrong and show what he was capable of.

However, he said his latest battle with injuries had forced him to accept that he could no longer continue playing international cricket at the highest level.

Doctors Advise Against Test and ODI Cricket

Mark Wood said doctors had advised that he would not be able to play Test and 50-over cricket anymore.

He said his dream of continuing to play for England over the past year had gradually slipped away as a result of his fitness problems.

Wood described representing England as the greatest honour he could have wished for and said playing for his country had been the fulfilment of a lifelong dream.

119 Test Wickets for England

Mark Wood made his international debut against New Zealand at Lord’s in 2015.

The 36-year-old fast bowler played 38 Test matches for England and took 119 wickets. He also represented England in 70 ODIs and 38 T20Is.

Wood became known for his express pace and ability to regularly bowl at speeds exceeding 90 miles per hour.

Key Role in 2019 World Cup

Wood was part of England’s historic 2019 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup-winning team.

He claimed 18 wickets during the tournament and regularly bowled at speeds of more than 95 miles per hour, making him an important member of England’s bowling attack.

He also featured in four Ashes series and played a significant role in several memorable England victories over Australia.

Wood’s retirement marks the end of an international career defined by pace, resilience and repeated comebacks from injury.