David Willey has announced his retirement from international cricket following the disappointment of being the only member of England's World Cup squad in India not to receive a central contract. The all-rounder, 33, made the announcement on Instagram, stating he had given his 'absolute everything' to the England shirt.
Willey's decision comes amid criticism from former England captain Michael Vaughan, who described the player's treatment as 'disgraceful' on BBC's Test Match Special. Vaughan highlighted that Willey had been England's best performer in recent matches, taking five wickets in three games with the best economy rate among England's fast bowlers.
England's managing director of men's cricket, Rob Key, acknowledged that Willey was 'not best pleased' about the contract snub. Willey responded to the setback with a fine performance against India in Lucknow, taking three for 45 and dismissing star batsman Virat Kohli for a duck.
In his emotional statement, Willey said: 'I never wanted this day to come. From a young boy I've only dreamed of playing for England. I have worn the shirt with immense pride and given my absolute everything to the badge on my chest.'
