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DUBLIN – Ciara O’Brien has stepped down as National Women’s selector after two-and-a-half years in the role.

O’Brien is a former Irish international hockey player and youth cricket international and was appointed Chair of National Women’s Selectors in 2023.

O’Brien is intrinsically involved in her club, Railway Union, at all levels from coaching, playing and administration. She is an advocate for increasing girls’ participation and maintaining their involvement in sport at all ages.

She said:

“I have very much enjoyed being involved in the women’s game at the highest level – having the opportunity to help oversee the progression of an exciting young group of talented cricketers and I’m looking forward to watching the squad continue to develop and perform on the world stage.

“To work with, firstly, Ed [Joyce] and now Lloyd [Tennant] as coaches and Beth Healy as manager has been a privilege and I firmly believe the women’s programme is shaping a group of cricketers that can compete with the world’s best.

“While I will miss the opportunity to be involved so closely in the development of the squad going forward, I remain a passionate supporter and advocate for the women’s game, and women’s sport more broadly, and will stay engaged as much as I can from the other side of the boundary rope over coming years.

“The squad are excellent ambassadors for our sport, and role models to so many aspiring and motivated female players throughout the country, I have seen that from my own daughters, Chloe and Jessica, and the many supporters who have collected autographs, had photographs taken and managed a couple of minutes to chat with their heroes. These gestures will have a lasting impact on children’s lives and I am incredibly grateful to the players and the support staff for recognising the importance of this legacy.

“My thanks to Cricket Ireland for giving me this opportunity, and I wish Lloyd, the coaches and players well over a busy few months ahead.”

Graeme West, Director of High Performance at Cricket Ireland, said:

“It has been delightful to work closely with Ciara, her insights and experience of playing at the highest levels of sport have been invaluable in selection and succession planning within the women’s game.

“The progress of the women’s squad has been very encouraging during Ciara’s tenure, and she can leave the role proud of the part she played in this progression. On behalf of Cricket Ireland, I thank Ciara for her commitment and contribution, and we will look to replace her in the role shortly.”