Pacer Boyd Rankin has announced his retirement from cricket after serving both Ireland and England. Rankin has played a total of 75 ODIs, fifty T20 Internationals and three Test in his cricketing career.
He played for Ireland in two stints between 2003 and 2020 consisting of a three-year service to England including an Ashes Test. Rankin spent 15 years playing English county cricket spending a long stretch of time at the Warwickshire.
“I feel now is the right time to step away, I have put my heart and soul into playing cricket professionally since 2003 and have loved every minute of it”, said the 36-year-old seamer.
The six feet tall Rankin stated that the World Cup wins in 2007 defeating Bangladesh and almighty Pakistan, who was in the final ahead in the tournament counts in his best memory. Putting Irish cricket on the world map is described to be his major achievements by the pacer himself.
“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,” Rankin added.
Ireland coach Graham Ford showed his gratitude towards the fast bowler stating to be very proud of his career. Rankin delivered Ireland with 229 wickets at an average of 23.39 finishing as the eighth highest wicket-taker for Ireland at the International level.
“Unfortunately, Father Time catches up with all cricketers. Sadly it is now Boyd’s time. 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.” Ireland coach, Ford, concluded.