Chris Woakes signs for Welsh Fire in The Hundred 2026
Welsh Fire have agreed a deal to sign Chris Woakes, the former England cricketer, for the 2026 season of The Hundred.
The 36-year-old is a World Cup winner in One Day Internationals and a long-time Twenty20 international, and Welsh Fire describe him as “one of the best all-rounders in world cricket.”
Woakes had previously signed with Fire but was unable to play after undergoing shoulder surgery following his most recent Test match against India in August.
With more than 300 international wickets and extensive experience across global white-ball tournaments, Welsh Fire hope the white-ball specialist can help improve their performance after several difficult seasons.
Woakes said: “I’m really happy to be back with Welsh Fire for the new season of The Hundred.
“I was disappointed not to be able to take the field in Wales last year because of my shoulder injury, but I’m excited to have another chance to play in front of the Fire supporters.”
Despite his vast experience in white-ball cricket, Woakes has played only three matches in The Hundred, all for Birmingham Phoenix in 2023.
Welsh Fire head coach Mike Hussey said: “Chris is a world-class cricketer and a fantastic addition to our squad.
“His experience, professionalism, and ability to influence matches with both bat and ball will be hugely important for us, on and off the field.”
Woakes joins Phil Salt, Rachin Ravindra, and Marco Jansen as Welsh Fire’s fourth confirmed signing.
A draft will take place in March, where teams will bid for players to finalize their squads for the 2026 competition.
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