Ireland’s O’Mahony, Murray and Healy to retire

Ireland’s Peter O’Mahony, Conor Murray and Cian Healy will retire from international rugby at the end of this year’s Six Nations.

At the end of the season, Murray will “pursue a playing opportunity abroad,” according to the Irish Rugby Football Union (IRFU), while Murray’s former captain O’Mahony and most-capped player Healy will step down from the game.

All three players have won more than 100 caps for Ireland and have five-time Six Nations victories.

Since joining the Ireland coaching staff in 2014, working with Peter, Cian, and Conor has been a privilege,” said interim head coach for Ireland, Simon Easterby.

They have each contributed significantly to Irish rugby’s success throughout their careers, and they continue to inspire their fellow teammates.

Watching how openly they communicate with players in their own positions and continue to improve the set-up shows how much both their collective character and their contribution to the pitch are being appreciated.

O’Mahony, 35, has won 112 Ireland caps since making his international debut against Italy in 2012. Following Johnny Sexton’s retirement, he assumed the captaincy and led the team to the Six Nations title last year.

Prior to the November internationals, he was replaced by Caelan Doris as captain, and he started the defeats of Scotland and Wales. He wasn’t in the squad for the opening Six Nations victory over England.

Since making his Munster debut in 2010, the flanker has also won two league titles. He was the province’s captain for 10 years before stepping down in late 2023.

O’Mahony led Ireland’s first Test match against New Zealand and participated in three World Cups for Ireland.