Ireland batsman James Shannon retires from all cricket

Shannon made his international debut in an ODI against Pakistan in Dublin in 2013. It remains the only 50-over game he played in national colours.

Shannon also represented his country in eight T20 internationals, and most famously struck a 35-ball 60 against India, in what turned out to be his last series with the national team.

That knock had offered a glimpse into Shannon’s enormous potential, but injuries and a move to Phoenix from his old club Instonians, subsequently hampered his progress. He returned to Instonians last season, but struggled for form. Shannon was also a part of the squad for Ireland’s Test debut, against Pakistan in 2018.

At the first-class level, Shannon played 13 matches, in which he made 833 runs at 39.66, with a best of 140*, while 25 List A games produced 386 runs at 18.38. His big ball-striking ability came to the fore in T20s, where he maintained a strike-rate of 143.83 after 18 outings with the bat, which gave him 420 runs at 23.33.

“I am today retiring from all levels of cricket, which will allow me to concentrate my focus on my next career move,” Shannon said.

“I would like to thank Cricket Ireland, and all the coaches and players I have worked with over the years for the opportunity to represent my country. It is something that I will cherish forever. Wearing the jersey was always my dream, and it was something I never took for granted. I wish the team all the success for the future, and I will be a keen supporter of all things Irish Cricket.”