The Hundred: Welsh Fire have signed former England international Chris Woakes

Welsh Fire have signed former England international Chris Woakes for the 2026 season of The Hundred.

The 36-year-old is a T20 One-Day World Cup winner who was described by Welsh Fire as “one of the most respected players in world cricket”.

Woakes signed for the Fire last year but was unable to feature after dislocating his shoulder in his last ever Test match against India in August.

With over 300 international wickets and experience in leagues around the world, the Welsh Fire are hoping the veteran white-ball player can help turn around the team’s fortunes after a difficult few years.

Woakes said: “I’m very pleased to be back with Welsh Fire for this year’s Hundred campaign.

“I was sad I couldn’t get on the field last year in Wales due to a shoulder injury, but I’m really excited to get back and play in front of the Welsh Fire fans.”

Despite his extensive experience in white-ball competitions, Woakes has only played three games at The Hundred – for the Birmingham Phoenix in 2023.

Welshfire Men’s Head Coach Michael Hussey said: “Chris is a world-class cricketer and a fantastic addition to our squad.

He added: “His experience, professionalism, and ability to influence matches with bat and ball will be invaluable to us, on and off the field.”

Woakes follows Phil Salt, Rachin Ravindra and Marco Jansen to become Welsh Fire’s fourth and final direct signing.

An auction will be held in March where concessions will be offered to players to determine their final squads for the 2026 edition of the competition.