The star England pacer David Willey, at the age of 33 has announced his retirement from international cricket, which will take place after England’s final match in the World Cup in India. This decision comes after the ECB chose not to extend a central contract for the 2023-24 cycle.
During the past four weeks in India, Willey is one of the few England players who has significantly bolstered his reputation, achieving five wickets at an average of 27.20 and contributing 42 runs from the lower order in his three appearances since his inclusion in the side following their substantial loss to South Africa in Mumbai.
Willey expressed that he wore the England shirt with immense pride and dedicated himself to giving his best when representing his country. In a statement, he conveyed that after careful contemplation, it is with deep regret that he believes it’s the right moment for him to step away from all forms of international cricket following the conclusion of the World Cup. Willey expressed his gratitude towards his family for being the bedrock of support in his life and for assisting him in realizing his dream of representing the England cricket team.
“To my wife, two children, mum and dad, I wouldn’t have been able to follow my dreams without your sacrifice and unwavering support throughout. Thank you for sharing the special memories and picking up the pieces when I have fallen apart – I am eternally grateful,” said Willey.
I will give my everything and more: Willey
Willey clarified that his choice is unrelated to England’s underwhelming performance in the World Cup. He mentioned that he still has much to offer to the world of cricket, both as a player and in various capacities off the field. This suggests that he may consider participating in T20 franchise cricket and The Hundred.
“I am sure everybody who knows me does not doubt that, whatever my involvement in the remaining of the campaign, I will give my everything and more. That’s the only way I know,” the left-arm speedster concluded.
Let us look at how Twitter has reacted to this retirement news from Willey:
Great player but couldn't fulfil his potential.
His batting at Perth Scorchers.
?— Abhishek Ojha (@vicharabhio) November 1, 2023
Rohit Sharma ended another bowlers career ??
— Useer45 (@140of113) November 1, 2023
Another career destroyed by Rohit Sharma
— Ansh Shah (@asmemesss) November 1, 2023
He didn't get contact from ECB so he decided to retire from international cricket.. BTW he is the best player for them in this world cup #WorldCup2023
— Unpadh (@Jakharr_R) November 1, 2023
All the best for career? And domestic season congratulations davidwilly
— ??? ??? ???? ??? ?? (@deshbadalo_1234) November 1, 2023
Best of luck for the future ??
— Cricket Polls (@CricPollsdaily) November 1, 2023
Shocking tbh, wonder why? He is superb on surface that offers even little bit for bowlers.
— Cricket_dude (@Hatedguy123) November 1, 2023
HE IS SUCH A GOOD PLAYER WHY WHY ??
— ???? ????? (@wokeindian14) November 1, 2023
