by: Atika Mehboob TN Sport Pakistan:
England’s David Willey, who was not awarded a central contract during the ECB annual contracting process for 2023-24, has decided to retire from all international cricket at the conclusion of the ongoing 2023 World Cup in India. The 33-year-old is the sole member of the current England World Cup squad without a central contract for the upcoming season.
In an announcement made on Wednesday, November 1, Willey expressed his reluctance to retire from international cricket. In a social media post, he said, “I never wanted this day to come. From a young boy, I’ve only ever dreamed of playing cricket for England. So, with careful thought and consideration, it is with great regret that I feel the time has come for me to retire from all forms of international cricket at the end of the World Cup.”
Willey has represented England with immense pride, dedicating his all to the national team. He acknowledged the privilege of being part of a remarkable white-ball team and cherishing special memories and friendships throughout his international career. He also recognized the support and sacrifices made by his family, thanking them for standing by him throughout his journey.
Despite England’s challenges in the ongoing World Cup, where they are currently at the bottom of the table with five defeats in six matches, Willey expressed his commitment to giving his best in the final three group stage matches against Australia, Netherlands, and Pakistan.
“I feel I still have a lot more to give on and off the field while I am still playing my best cricket, and my decision has nothing to do with our performance during the World Cup,” Willey explained. “I’m sure everybody who knows me does not doubt that, whatever my involvement in the remainder of this campaign, I will give my everything and more. That’s the only way I know.”
Willey clarified that he intends to continue playing in shorter formats, such as T20 and the Hundred, for franchises and domestic teams. He served as the captain of Northamptonshire in the T20 Blast last year and participated in the Hundred for Welsh Fire. Additionally, he is set to represent Abu Dhabi Knight Riders in the second edition of the ILT20 in January and is under contract with Royal Challengers Bangalore in the IPL.
This marks the end of an international career for David Willey, but he looks forward to contributing to the game in various domestic and franchise-based cricket competitions.
