“I have poured my heart and soul into Irish cricket and to play a part in undoubtedly one of the great success stories of Irish sport has been an incredible experience”

Image courtesy of: ESPNcricinfo

Ireland all-rounder Andrew White, who is the country’s most-capped player, has announced his retirement from international cricket.

White, who has represented Ireland in 231 matches, failed to make the cut for the 2015 World Cup since he picked up a finger injury.

“It is with a heavy heart that I am retiring from representing Ireland on the international stage,” White said. “Over the last 15 years I have poured my heart and soul into Irish cricket and to play a part in undoubtedly one of the great success stories of Irish sport has been an incredible experience.

“It had been my ambition to finish my international career at the 2015 World Cup in Australia and New Zealand in the coming weeks, however, suffering a compound fracture of my right index finger in September meant that this was unfortunately not going to be possible.”

However, White, who is also a schoolteacher, has confirmed that he will continue to play domestic cricket.

“The memories and stories are plenty,” White said. “To have come through the disappointing failure to qualify for the 2003 World Cup, the introduction of Adi Birrell as coach, changed the sport here forever.

“In 2007, we finally realised every cricketer’s dream to play in a World Cup. As players, we lived the dream to the full and shared it with so many wonderful supporters, something that will live long in the memory.”

Paying tribute to White, Ireland head coach Phil Simmons said: “His longevity in a 15-year career is testament to both his talent and his consistency – he rarely let his team down and it’s no coincidence that he was involved in so many key moments in Ireland’s triumphs over the years. I’d like to thank him for his efforts over an illustrious career, and wish him and his family all the very best in the future.”