Nigel Jones Retires To Take Up Development Role

Nigel Jones Retires To Take Up Development Role

Nigel Jones, pictured here during what turned out to be his final ODI, against England, has announced his retirement from international cricket

©REUTERS / Action Images

Ireland all-rounder Nigel Jones has retired from international cricket but will remain in the game as a full-time Regional Development Officer.

Jones, who played 14 One-Day Internationals and five Twenty20 Internationals for Ireland, has been appointed to the North of Ireland while Brian Allen will take up a post in the North-West.

Jones played in the 2010 World Cricket League final against Scotland, his final ODI came against England in 2011 and he played in both of Ireland's matches at the ICC World Twenty20 2012 in Sri Lanka.

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"It hasn't been an easy decision or one that I have taken lightly, but I simply now don't have the time to commit to making myself the player that I need to be for international cricket," Jones said. "I've also sustained a shoulder injury that will require surgery at some stage.

"I have enjoyed every moment of my involvement and I feel honoured to have represented Ireland over the past three and half years.  As a player I probably never achieved the results that I was capable of, but equally I guess I was limited with the opportunities I had - that's life!" 

Talking about his new role, he added: "I'm delighted to be offered a full-time post with Cricket Ireland - I have made no secret that this is what I have been working towards and I'm very keen to make the most of my extended role.  It is a fantastic time to be involved in the development of Cricket in Ireland and 2013 will not only be a big year for our international and inter-provincial cricketers but also for all of us that work to underpin the player pathway experience.  I feel very fortunate to be able to play a major role in this going forward."

The appointment of both Jones and Allen has been made possible by a two-year grant from the ICC Europe Regional Funding Programme and both men will be looking to introduce and develop cricket in new areas.

Nick Pink, ICC Europe Regional Development Manager said: "Working alongside Cricket Ireland through our regional support programme is a great way for ICC to align our objectives to the development needs of our members. We are excited by Cricket Ireland's further expansion and plans and wish them every success."

© Cricket World 2013