Gary Wilson confirms retirement from professional cricket to begin coaching career

A 16-year spell as a player will be followed by a move to North West Warriors as head coach and pathway manager

Ireland announce home summer fixtures against South Africa and Zimbabwe

Gary Wilson, the Ireland batsman-wicketkeeper, has confirmed his retirement from the professional game.

The 30-year-old played 188 times for his country across the Test, one-day international and T20 formats.

He graced seven World Cups at 50 and 20-over level and is currently the fourth-highest run-scorer in Ireland's history.

Wilson also had spells with boyhood club Surrey as well as Derbyshire and played 107 first-class matches, 217 List A games and 204 in 20-over cricket.

North West Warriors have appointed Wilson as head coach and pathway manager starting later this month.

"To step away from international cricket after 16 years is something I will miss dearly – I will miss the guys probably more than anything, but pulling on the shirt and playing for Ireland was the only thing I ever dreamed of growing up," he said.

"Coaching is always something I’ve thought of once I finished playing. What’s exciting about it here in Ireland is the impact I think I can have - the opportunity to improve players.

"Hopefully, I can use some of my experience both from England and playing for Ireland in order to do that. I’m really passionate about Irish cricket and hopefully can help bring through the next generation and see Ireland flourish in the future really excites me."

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