David Willey, the prominent England bowler, has announced his impending retirement from all international cricket forms, effective after the conclusion of the ongoing World Cup. This comes just a week following England’s roll-out of their updated central contracts, in which Willey notably was the sole player from the World Cup lineup not awarded a new contract.
At 33 years old, Willey has participated in England’s recent three matches during the Indian World Cup, seizing five wickets and racking up 32 runs to his name.
“It’s a day I’ve dreaded since I was a kid, whose biggest dream was always to play cricket for England,” Willey commented.
He added, “After a lot of soul-searching and heavy deliberation, I’ve sadly concluded that now’s the right moment for me to step away from the international stage, once the World Cup wraps up.”
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Since making his first appearance for England in 2015, the left-arm quick bowler has been featured in 70 ODIs and 43 T20s. He was a staple in the ODI team until he found himself edged out just before the 2019 World Cup in favor of Jofra Archer—ironically, a tournament that England eventually clinched.
“I’ve donned the jersey with enormous pride and given every ounce of myself to that emblem over my heart,” Willey stated.
“Being part of this amazing white-ball squad, sharing the field with some of the game’s greats, has been nothing short of a privilege. Along this journey, I’ve forged unforgettable memories and friendships, even though it wasn’t always smooth sailing.”
Despite being the reigning champs, England is teetering on the brink of an early exit this year, having lost five out of their six games so far. With only three matches left, starting with Australia this weekend, their chances of advancing look slim.
While Willey and Chris Woakes are the squad’s only true new-ball bowlers, England may consider pivoting to Gus Atkinson and Brydon Carse as they peek into the next chapter.
Willey’s decision opens up his schedule for participation in various T20 leagues around the world.
“My decision isn’t a reflection of our World Cup performance. I believe I still have plenty to contribute, both on and off the pitch, and I’m still at the top of my game,” he clarified.
He concluded, “Anyone who knows me is well aware that I will pour my heart and soul into whatever remains of this campaign. Giving it anything less than my all just isn’t in my DNA.”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about David Willey Retirement
When is David Willey retiring from international cricket?
David Willey is set to retire from all forms of international cricket after the conclusion of the ongoing World Cup in India.
Why has David Willey decided to retire now?
David Willey’s decision to retire comes a week after England announced their new central contracts, in which he was notably the only player from the World Cup lineup not to be given a new deal. He has also cited that after a lot of “soul-searching,” he believes it’s the right time to step away from the international stage.
What has been David Willey’s performance in the current World Cup?
In the current World Cup, David Willey has played in England’s last three matches, taking five wickets and scoring 32 runs.
Was David Willey a part of England’s 2019 World Cup win?
No, David Willey was dropped from the ODI side just before the 2019 World Cup in favor of Jofra Archer. England went on to win that tournament.
What are England’s prospects in the current World Cup?
England, the defending champions, are facing potential elimination in the group stages of this year’s tournament. They have lost five of their six matches and have only three games remaining.
Who are the other new-ball bowlers in the England squad?
Apart from David Willey, Chris Woakes is the only other genuine new-ball bowler in England’s current World Cup squad.
What are David Willey’s future plans?
David Willey plans to participate in various T20 leagues around the world following his retirement from international cricket.
Is Willey’s retirement decision based on England’s poor performance in this World Cup?
No, David Willey clarified that his decision to retire is not based on England’s performance in the current World Cup. He believes he still has much to offer and will give his all in the remaining matches.
More about David Willey Retirement
- David Willey’s Career Stats
- England’s New Central Contracts Announcement
- England’s 2019 World Cup Journey
- Current World Cup Standings
- Profile of Chris Woakes
- Overview of T20 Leagues Worldwide
6 comments
his statement really hit me “Giving it anything less than my all just isn’t in my DNA.” What a guy, gonna miss him in the international circuit.
Ah, 2015 feels like yesterday. Willey’s been a cornerstone in England’s white-ball journey. Sad to see him go but excited for whats next for him.
Seriously, the dude’s still got it. Five wickets in the last three matches? He should have got a contract. Just sayin’
So if Willey’s out, who’s next in line? Atkinson? Carse? Englands gotta think fast if they’re gonna turn this tourney around.
Man, can’t believe Willey is retiring. end of an era for sure, still remember when he debuted. Will be weird to see England play without him!
England’s loss is T20 leagues gain. Lookin forward to seeing Willey smash it in other tournaments.