Some English Cricket fans might feel stunned about David Willey deciding to retire from international cricket. The 33-year-old made this heartfelt announcement after not being offered a central contract with the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB).
The disappointment of being overlooked for a central contract weighed heavily on his mind, ultimately making his retirement decision much more straightforward. “Upset, angry, disappointed. I think that, for me, made my decision a lot easier,” Willey told to Sky Sports.
Willey’s decision comes in the midst of the One-Day International World Cup in India, where he had been actively representing his nation. “These conversations around contracts all happened before we came out (to the World Cup). I knew I was the only one that didn’t have one,” he said.
England were under-pressure throughout the tournament and such decisions should have been kept under the lid at least by the end of World Cup. One of most dedicated players of England cricket team has to play with sore heart with an indecisive future in the team.
Willey, known for his left-arm fast-medium bowling skills, has been a vital part of the England cricket setup since his debut in 2015. With 70 One-Day Internationals and 43 Twenty20 Internationals under his belt, he has consistently played a big role in the both as a bowler and a senior player of the team.
One might wonder why Willey chose this particular moment to retire. He explained, “Towards the back end of the summer, I knew it was coming. And I just feel that there’s not very many opportunities in cricket to walk away when the time is right for you.”
His decision crystallized during a match against India in the World Cup, where he experienced an emotional epiphany. “That game against India, in front of a full crowd, in a World Cup: I walked out to bat, there was a strobe light show going on, and as I walked down the steps, I thought ‘I’m done.’”
The timing of his decision coincides with England’s challenging campaign in the ODI World Cup. Jos Buttler’s team is currently languishing at the bottom of the points table after suffering five defeats in six matches. Their upcoming clash against Australia is crucial, and the absence of David Willey’s all-round abilities will be keenly felt in future games.
Willey will continue to play for Northamptonshire in County cricket. Definitely, we will see him playing for different franchises around the world. In a problematic tournament for England, Willey has played decent cricket, giving his full effort.
