Mark Wood Retires from International Cricket After 11-Year England Career

England fast bowler Mark Wood announced his retirement from international cricket on September 22, 2026, bringing an end to an 11-year international career. The 36-year-old pacer decided to step away from international cricket following recurring knee injury problems.

Wood represented England across all three formats and was a member of the teams that won the 2019 ICC Cricket World Cup and the 2022 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup.

Mark Wood Announces International Retirement

Known for his express pace, Wood played 146 international matches across Tests, One Day Internationals (ODIs) and Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is).

His international career was frequently affected by injuries, and continuing knee problems eventually contributed to his decision to retire.

Mark Wood’s International Career

Wood’s Test Cricket Record

Wood represented England in 38 Test matches, claiming 119 wickets at an average of 30.79.

His ability to bowl at high speeds made him an important part of England’s pace attack, particularly when the team needed a fast bowler capable of troubling batters with pace and bounce.

ODI and T20I Career

In One Day Internationals, Wood played 70 matches and claimed 80 wickets.

He also represented England in 38 T20 Internationals, taking 54 wickets. He finished sixth on England’s all-time T20I wicket-taking list with 54 wickets.

Across the three international formats, Wood ended his career with 253 wickets.

Two-Time World Cup Winner with England

One of the major highlights of Wood’s international career was his involvement in two of England’s most significant limited-overs achievements.

He was part of England’s squad that won the 2019 ICC Cricket World Cup, when England secured its first men’s ODI World Cup title.

Wood was also a member of the England squad that captured the 2022 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, giving him two global titles during his international career.

Last International Match

Wood’s final international appearance came in November 2025, during the first Test of the 2025-26 Ashes series against Australia.

England lost the match by eight wickets, and it ultimately became Wood’s last appearance for the national team.

The Ashes is the historic Test cricket series contested between England and Australia.

Recurring Knee Injury Problems

Injuries were a recurring challenge during Wood’s career. His latest decision came after prolonged difficulties with a knee injury and a slow recovery.

Wood had indicated in March 2026 that retirement was a possibility while discussing his recovery. His England central contract was also due to expire the following month.

The physical demands of international fast bowling, combined with his injury problems, contributed to his decision to end his England career at the age of 36.

Will Mark Wood Continue Playing Cricket?

Although Wood has retired from international cricket, he does not plan to stop playing the sport completely.

He intends to continue representing Durham in the T20 Blast and is also expected to participate in franchise cricket leagues.

Therefore, his retirement applies to international cricket rather than all forms of professional cricket.

Mark Wood Career at a Glance

Key Points for Exams

• Mark Wood announced his retirement from international cricket on September 22, 2026.
• He represented England as a fast bowler.
• He retired at the age of 36 after an 11-year international career.
• Tests: 38 matches, 119 wickets.
• ODIs: 70 matches, 80 wickets.
• T20Is: 38 matches, 54 wickets.
• Total international wickets: 253.
• He was part of England’s 2019 ODI World Cup-winning team.
• He was also part of England’s 2022 T20 World Cup-winning team.
• His last international appearance came in the 2025-26 Ashes against Australia in November 2025.
• He plans to continue playing for Durham and in franchise leagues.