Ireland pacer Tim Murtagh announces international retirement

Ireland pacer Tim Murtagh has announced his retirement from international cricket. Murtagh represented his nation in 3 Tests and 58 ODIs, with his last appearance coming in Ireland's historic four-day Test against England, where he picked up 6 wickets.

Murtagh will continue to turn out for Middlesex though, having signed a two-year extension with the County.

The 38-year-old was forced to call time on his international career due to changes in ECB's regulations which would have classified him as an overseas player had he continued representing Ireland.

Speaking about his decision, Murtagh revealed that he has enjoyed his eight-year international career, but is now focussed on helping Middlesex win trophies on the domestic circuit. He also opened up about the promise he made to Middlesex's director of cricket, Angus Fraser.

"This is a day that I have known has been coming for a few years since the ECB changed their regulations, but it hasn't made the decision any easier. I've had eight great years playing international cricket and loved every minute of it. It's sad that it has come to an end but a decision that I have made my peace with."

"I made a promise to Angus Fraser when I first started playing International cricket that if I ever had to make a choice between playing for Ireland or rewarding Middlesex for the commitment they'd shown to me over the years, that I would commit to finishing my playing days at Lord's."

Murtagh retires with 100 international wickets to his name across formats.