Mark Wood Retires From International Cricket: England Fast Bowler Calls Time on Career After Injury Battle

England fast bowler Mark Wood has announced his retirement from international cricket, bringing an end to an 11-year career that saw him become one of the country's quickest and most dangerous pace bowlers.

Wood, 36, confirmed his decision on Tuesday, September 22, saying medical advice meant he could no longer play Test and 50-over cricket. He also said the timing felt right as his England contract was coming to an end.

Injuries force Wood to retire

Wood's career was repeatedly interrupted by injuries, but his latest setback proved decisive. He returned to Test cricket during the 2025-26 Ashes in Australia after a long absence caused by an elbow injury and subsequent knee surgery.

He played in the first Test in Perth but bowled only 11 overs before swelling returned in his left knee. He was subsequently ruled out of the remainder of the Ashes series.

Wood said he had always managed to find a way back from previous injuries but eventually felt he had “lost the battle”. He added that playing for England had been the greatest honour of his career.

253 international wickets

Wood made his England debut in 2015 and finished with 253 wickets in 146 international matches across all formats.

His Test record includes 119 wickets in 38 matches, while he collected 80 wickets in 70 ODIs and 54 wickets in 38 T20 internationals.

He was part of England's 2019 ODI World Cup-winning team and later helped the side win the 2022 T20 World Cup in Australia. Wood also played a role in England's Ashes campaigns, including the 2015 series victory over Australia.

A career defined by pace and resilience

Wood became known for his ability to consistently bowl at high pace and provide England with a strike-bowling option across formats.

England men's managing director Rob Key praised Wood's contribution, highlighting his role in Ashes successes and England's two World Cup triumphs.

While Wood has retired from international cricket, he has indicated that he hopes to continue playing cricket in some capacity, including potentially at domestic or franchise level.

His international retirement closes the chapter on an England career shaped by express pace, major tournament success and a prolonged battle to remain fit.