Retired Chris Woakes smashes Pakistan pacer for last-ball six in thrilling win in eliminator on BPL debut; watch video

Retired from international cricket, England’s pace-bowling all-rounder Chris Woakes showed his batting prowess on Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) debut. In the BPL 2026 eliminator clash at Shere Bangla National Stadium, Dhaka on January 20, Woakes smashed Pakistan's pace-bowling all-rounder Faheem Ashraf for a six off the last ball to stun Litton Das-led Rangpur Riders. Sylhet Titans won the match by three wickets, advancing to the Qualifier 2 against Rajshahi Warriors on January 21.

On his BPL debut, Woakes picked up a couple of wickets and conceded just 15 runs from his quota of four overs. Rangpur Riders managed to post just 111/9 on the board.

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But, in tough conditions, Sylhet Titans struggled as well. From 44/4, Sam Billings and skipper Mehidy Hasan Miraz tried to stabilise the run chase. In the slog overs, both of them fell and Woakes arrived at the crease with 11 balls left in the run chase. In the final over, nine runs were needed. Moeen Ali scored a couple of runs off the first ball, followed by two dot deliveries. On the fourth ball, he lost his wicket. Then, new batter Khaled Ahmed who took a four-fer, took a single. On the last ball, six runs were needed. Woakes stayed deep in the crease and hit the ball over extra cover for a maximum.

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As Woakes pulled off a heist for Titans, his new teammates rushed to the middle and hugged him. The players, officials, franchise owners in both camps were overwhelmed with emotions as the experienced English campaigner finished the run chase in style.

Titans up against Warriors for a seat in final

Woakes will be seen in action again when Sylhet Titans go up against Rajshahi Warriors in Qualifier 2 at the same venue on January 21. Whoever wins the clash will progress to the final against Chattogram Royals.

Old guard Woakes T20 appearances since retirement

This was Woakes’ fourth game since his retirement from international cricket. After the Ashes 2025-26 snub, the 36-year-old took the decision to bid goodbye to the international arena. Since then, he has played three ILT20 2025-26 games for MI Emirates, followed by the memorable BPL debut. The unbeaten 10-run knock for Titans is the first time he scored runs since retirement as well.