Ireland pacer Boyd Rankin calls time on playing career

Ireland pacer Boyd Rankin has announced his retirement from all forms of cricket. Rankin has bowed out of the game at the age of 36, following a fruitful career. The pacer was a major performer for the Ireland men’s national team. Rankin made his international debut in 2007. The 36-year-old represented Ireland in two different stints – he played for England in 10 internationals in 2013/14. Rankin was further one of the 11 players who played in Ireland’s historic debut Test match against Pakistan in 2018. The pacer played three Tests, 75 ODIs and 50 T20Is in his international career.

“To retire from international cricket is always a tough call, but I feel now is the right time to step away,” he said in a statement as quoted by ICC.

“I have put my heart and soul into playing cricket professionally since 2003 and have loved every minute of it. I never dreamt I would play for Ireland as much as I did and to travel the world playing in numerous World Cups and to pull on the Irish jersey is something I will never forget,” added Rankin.

Rankin expresses gratefulness

The cricketer further enjoyed a long and illustrious career in the County Championship. He reflected with great happiness upon his stint with Warwickshire.

“To have also a long career in county cricket especially during my 11-year stint with Warwickshire where we won the County Championship, 50-over competition twice and the T20 Blast in 2014 was very special and something I am very grateful for,” stated Rankin.

The pacer received tribute from Ireland men’s head coach Graham Ford, with the latter lauding his professionalism.

“Unfortunately Father Time catches up with all cricketers. Sadly it is now Boyd’s time, but he can be so proud of his brilliant career and all of what he has achieved in the game. During my involvement with Cricket Ireland, he has been an ultimate professional, shown great courage while bowling through body niggles and put in many high impact performances. I sincerely wish him a highly successful and exciting next life chapter,” concluded Ford.