Ireland's Amy Kenealy calls time on international cricket

“It is with all sorts of mixed emotions I am stepping away from the Ireland Women’s international team, but this is the correct decision for me right now,” Kenealy said on Monday 4 November.

The 31-year-old made her first international appearance against West Indies in 2008 and went on to represent her country in 23 ODIs and 24 T20Is. She returned her career-best figures of 4/32 in a 50-over contest against Bangladesh in September 2016 and made her final appearance for Ireland in November of last year.

Her 72 international appearances saw her claim 45 wickets, and she finishes her career as Ireland Women's 12th highest all-time wicket-taker.

“I would like to take this opportunity to thank my teammates, coaches and Cricket Ireland staff for every opportunity that they have given me in this amazing part of my life – from the gruelling fitness sessions on Clontarf seafront back in 2006 to the amazing Sport Ireland Institute, to playing in men’s Division 12, to opening the bowling in a World Cup in India and everything in between," Kenealy said.

“I can still remember that first phone call from Claire O’Leary in my leaving cert year to invite me to train with the squad – since that time I’ve given it my all, and have made so many friends and memories over this time.”

“Although it is sad to step away, I’ll keep up with the progress of the team and be there to support the girls throughout.”