“I’ve decided to call time on what has been a wonderful career in the green of Ireland”

Image courtesy of: Zimbio

Ireland all-rounder John Mooney has announced his retirement from international cricket with immediate effect.

Mooney leaves the game as only one of four Ireland players to have appeared in the last three editions of the World Cup.

The 33-year-old, who last represented Ireland during their Intercontinental Cup win over Namibia in October, has revealed that he will direct his attention towards running his gym and personal training businesses, while also spending time with his family.

“I’ve decided to call time on what has been a wonderful career in the green of Ireland,” Mooney said. “At this stage of my career, I’m beginning to think about what comes next, especially commitments to my new gym and personal training business. I’ve always given 100% to the team, and it wouldn’t be fair on them to keep going if I’m not fully committed.

“I’ve also been playing internationally for 14 years and over the past few seasons have found that the intensity and demands of the modern game have placed a considerable strain on my body. It’s also become increasingly difficult to spend such long periods of time away from my wife and young family.”

Mooney represented Ireland in 182 matches, which include 64 ODIs and 27 Twenty20 internationals.