IN AN unexpected announcement, legend of the game Richie English has confirmed his immediate retirement from the Limerick Senior Hurling team.
Only a couple of weeks ago, the 2018 All-Star was included in the squad for the upcoming season.
In a statement, the 29-year-old, of county champions Doon, confirmed that “after nine years, the time has come for me to leave”, siting unfortunate injuries as the driving factor in the decision.
“It has been an honour to be part of this group and we have made incredible memories. It is not easy to step away from such a wonderful group but unfortunately my body will not let me get to the levels needed for the coming year.”
The All-Star expressed his gratitude to “the medical teams, especially Mark Melbourne and Dr James Ryan, who helped me to recover from the injuries during my career”.
“Thank you to my family, friends, and partner Kathleen for their help and support throughout my career. I would like to thank my clubs Doon and Oola, along with my underage coaches, for their guidance and encouragement over the years.
“I would also like to thank the current and former Limerick management teams for giving me the opportunity to wear the green and white of Limerick (for nine seasons). In particular I want to thank John (Kiely) and Paul (Kinnerk) along with their backroom teams for bringing me with them on this incredible journey.
“I would like to extend my appreciation to the Limerick County Board, Club Limerick and sponsors JP and Noreen Mc Manus for their support to the team during my career.”
English said that he had been “very fortunate to play with an incredible group of players who I have shared some of the best days of my life with and to them I will be forever grateful”,
Concluded the five-time All-Ireland medal winner: “Finally, I wish the team and management all the best for the 2025 season and beyond.”
Reacting to the shock resignation, Limerick GAA Chairman Seamus McNamara said he wanted to “thank Richie for his enormous contribution to Limerick over the last number of years”.
“Richie has had a number of setbacks over the years but has always shown great resolve in getting back to the field where he has excelled. He has been a fantastic ambassador for the county and we wish Richie all the best in the future”
