Mark Wood bids farewell to international cricket.

Mark Wood, one of England's fastest pace bowlers, has announced his retirement from international cricket. The retirement of the English pacer—who turns 37 next January—was largely expected; after a long battle with injuries, he has finally decided to hang up his national team jersey.

Wood has not played for England since sustaining an injury during the Perth Test of the Ashes series last November. That knee injury ultimately brought his international career to a close.

253 Wickets in 146 Matches

Wood claimed 253 wickets across 146 international matches for England in all three formats. Injuries remained a major hurdle throughout his career, and he has now officially decided to step away from that struggle.

Wood announced his retirement before commentating on the England vs. Sri Lanka ODI at Durham's Riverside Ground. Although leaving international cricket, he is not stepping away from the sport entirely; the pacer intends to continue playing for Durham in the T20 Blast and in various franchise leagues. Additionally, he has already completed a Level-3 coaching course.

"Mentally Shattered"

In an interview with Sky Sports, Wood opened up about his long battle with injury. He revealed that the extended period on the sidelines following his last match in Perth took a severe toll on his mental well-being.

In Wood's words, "This battle over nearly a year and a half left me mentally shattered. I began to think I would never return to those previous heights."

His central contract with England is also due to expire next week. He decided to step away from international cricket only after confirming that the contract would not be renewed.

Started in 2015; Three World Titles

Wood made his international debut for England in ODIs in 2015. His pace, aggressive bowling, and lively presence on the field quickly made him a favorite among England fans.

That same year, he was part of the moment that sealed England's Ashes victory by taking the wicket of Nathan Lyon at Trent Bridge. Subsequently, he was also a member of the England squads that won the 2019 ODI World Cup and the 2022 T20 World Cup.

Over the course of his international career, Wood has claimed 119 wickets in 38 Tests, 80 in 70 ODIs, and 54 in 38 T20s. This express pacer will be particularly remembered in the history of English cricket for his bowling speed and aggression.