England fast bowler David Willey has announced that he will retire from international cricket after the 50-overs World Cup in India, according to the 33-year-old’s statement on Wednesday.
Willey was not offered a contract when the English cricket board announced new central contracts last week, which means he will now be able to participate in various franchise-based leagues worldwide.
The left-arm bowler, since making his debut for England in 2015, has played 70 one-day internationals, including three matches in the ongoing World Cup, and 43 T20 internationals.
“I have always worn the shirt with great pride and have given my all for the badge on my chest,” Willey expressed in a statement.
“I have been extremely fortunate to be a part of such an incredible white-ball team alongside some of the world’s best players.”
England’s title defense is in dire straits, with Jos Buttler’s team languishing at the bottom of the points table after suffering five defeats in six matches.
Willey clarified that his decision to retire is not based on England’s performance in the tournament.
“I believe that I still have a lot more to offer both on and off the field while I am still playing my best cricket, and my choice has nothing to do with our performance in the World Cup,” he explained.
“I am confident that everyone who knows me has no doubt that, regardless of my involvement in the remainder of this campaign, I will give my utmost and beyond. That is the only way I know how to approach the game.”
(Reporting by Amlan Chakraborty in New Delhi; Editing by Tomasz Janowski)
