The T20 World Cup 2024 has kicked off in America today. According to Indian time, the matches will be played in India starting from June 2. All participating teams have arrived in America and are putting in rigorous practice sessions in preparation for the tournament. Notably, England all-rounder Chris Woakes is absent from this year's competition. Woakes revealed on social media that he is stepping away from the tournament due to the recent passing of his father. He has chosen to spend time with his family during this difficult period, and fans are eagerly awaiting his return to the cricket field.

Woakes’ Absence from the T20 World Cup 2024

Veteran all-rounder Chris Woakes shared his grief on social media, explaining his decision to take a break from cricket. Woakes wrote, “The last month has been the most challenging month of my life. Unfortunately, my dad passed away in early May.” He emphasized the importance of being with his family during this time. “We are all obviously grieving and trying to get through what is undoubtedly the most difficult moment of our lives,” he added.

Prioritizing Family During the T20 World Cup 2024

Chris Woakes acknowledged that his father was very proud of his cricket career. However, he made it clear that family comes first. “I will start playing cricket again for Warwickshire, which my father loved very much, when the time is right for me and my family,” he said.

Woakes Misses IPL 2024 and T20 World Cup 2024

Woakes has neither played for Warwickshire nor for Punjab Kings in the IPL this season. As a result, he was left out of England's squad for the T20 World Cup. Woakes expressed that he might be somewhat relieved not to be part of the squad this time, as he wants to spend as much time as possible with his family during this period of mourning.

Chris Woakes’ Impressive International Career

Chris Woakes has an illustrious international cricket career, having played over 200 matches. This includes 48 Test matches, 122 ODI matches, and 33 T20 matches. Woakes was a key member of the England team that won the T20 World Cup in 2022. He also played a crucial role in England's victorious 2019 ODI World Cup campaign.