‘Most challenging times’ – Chris Woakes issues statement on his absence from cricket | Sporting News India

England and Warwickshire cricketer Chris Woakes has a released a statement revealing that the death of his father has been the reason for his absence from cricket.

The 35-year-old English allrounder did not feature for the Punjab Kings in the recent Indian Premier League season (IPL 2024) and has not played a part in the ongoing County championship season either. 

He is also not part of the England squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup, co-hosted by the USA and West Indies.

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Chris Woakes explains reason for his absence from cricket

In a social media post on X, Woakes stated the reason for his absence, saying:

“The last month has been the most challenging of my life when my dad passed away at the beginning of May.”

“I’ve spent the last few weeks with the people most important to me, my family. We’re all obviously grieving and trying to get through what is undoubtedly the hardest moments in our lives.”

“It’s times like this that perspective is at its greatest.”, he added.

When will Chris Woakes be back playing cricket again?

Woakes further revealed that he will be back playing cricket soon, saying:

“I will be back playing cricket for Warwickshire, who my Dad loved dearly when the time is right for me and my family. I know playing cricket for Warwickshire and England made my Dad incredibly proud. I look forward to doing that again in the future.”

The English cricketer ended the post thanking everyone for their privacy as he and his family, grieve the passing away of his father.

Woakes’ last professional appearance was in the month of February earlier this year, when he played in the ILT20 tournament in UAE.

Warwickshire started their domestic T20 season in the Vitality T20 Blast 2024 with a victory against Durham, will be hoping for the England international’s return to boost their chances in the upcoming games of the tournament.