Ireland pair Hannah Tyrrell and Katie Fitzhenry have announced their retirements from international rugby.
Both players were part of the squad that won the 2015 Women’s Six Nations and represented their country at the 2017 World Cup in Ireland, as well on the Sevens circuit.
Tyrrell, 30, won 20 caps and last featured off the bench in the 25-5 victory over Italy in this year’s Women’s Six Nations, while Fitzhenry 32, made 13 appearances for her country.
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Fly-half Tyrrell said: “I never imagined where this journey would take me. It has been an absolute privilege to wear the green jersey.
“I will cherish the memories and friendships made throughout my career with Ireland.
“I will be fully behind Adam [Griggs] and the team on their journey to qualify for next year’s World Cup in New Zealand, and I will always remain their biggest supporter.”
Centre Fitzhenry, who will formally retire in July after nine years in the Ireland Women’s programme, said: “I’ve been lucky to put on the green jersey for the last seven years across both the Sevens and XVs formats, and to witness Irish women’s rugby and the programme grow into what it is today has been a privilege.
“I’m confident in the girls and the programme to now bring the sport to bigger and better places in this country and I’m very excited to support from the stands.”
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Ireland head coach Adam Griggs said: “It will be sad to see both Hannah and Katie retire from international rugby.
“The last year has thrown up a lot of challenges and it is understandable that they are looking forward to the next chapter of their lives.
“They have been a huge part of driving the high standards on and off the field and we wish them well for the future.”
Both players made their Sevens debuts in 2014, with Tyrell scoring 99 points in 103 games while Fitzhenry played in 79 matches.
Anthony Eddy, the IRFU director of Sevens and Women’s Rugby, added: “I would like to thank Hannah and Katie for their outstanding contribution to the IRFU Women’s programme over the past seven-plus years.
“They have been very important players for the programme and have managed to mentor and look after some of the younger players that have developed in recent years.
“Both players have enjoyed many good times and endured challenges and always represented themselves, the team and the Union with the utmost respect and dignity.
“I am sure they will continue to contribute to women’s rugby and the IRFU in the future and I wish them all the best for their future endeavours.”
