Tim Murtagh Set to Retire: Middlesex and Ireland Fast Bowler Calls Time on Career

Middlesex Seam Bowler Tim Murtagh Announces Retirement

In a surprising turn of events, Middlesex’s experienced seam bowler, Tim Murtagh, has recently announced his retirement from professional cricket at the end of this season. The 42-year-old right-armer has had an illustrious career with numerous accolades and achievements.

Murtagh represented Ireland on the international stage between 2012 and 2019, playing three Tests, 58 One-Day Internationals (ODIs), and 14 T20 Internationals. His contribution to the Irish team is admirable.

During his time at Middlesex since joining in 2007 from Surrey, Murtagh displayed exceptional skills as a bowler. With a remarkable record of taking a staggering total of 951 wickets in just over two hundred first-class appearances (263), he undoubtedly left an indelible mark on English county cricket.

“It has been an incredible journey for me to live out my childhood dreams for such a significant period,” expressed Murtagh upon announcing his retirement. His passion and dedication have been evident throughout his career.

Achievements and Contributions

Murtagh played a pivotal role in Middlesex’s County Championship title success in the year of triumph – back in 2016. Displaying immense skill and precision as a bowler during that campaign, he claimed an impressive tally of forty-three wickets at an average of approximately twenty-eight runs per scalp.

The right-armer also played a significant part in the T20 Cup victory of 2008, contributing to Middlesex’s triumph. Moreover, he was instrumental in helping the club secure promotions from Division Two in both 2011 and 2022.

Transitioning into Coaching

This season, Murtagh took on a player-coach role at Lord’s – featuring prominently in five out of twelve Division One matches for Middlesex. As he prepares to retire from playing professionally, it has been revealed that the club will offer him a full-time coaching position.

“It’s an incredible honor to have represented this prestigious club since 2007. I am immensely grateful to everyone who made me feel welcome and part of the family here,” said Murtagh with gratitude towards his cricketing journey at Middlesex.

Looking ahead, Murtagh is eager to contribute further as part of the coaching staff. He expressed his excitement about assisting and nurturing the next generation of talented cricketers at Middlesex while embracing this new phase of life.

An International Career Highlight

Murtagh had memorable appearances for Ireland during his international career as well. He was part of their first-ever Test match against Pakistan in May 2018, which unfortunately ended with a defeat by five wickets. However, one particular highlight came during his final Test outing against England at Lord’s in July 2019. In that match, Tim Murtagh bowled magnificently and claimed impressive figures of 5-13 as England were dismissed for just 85 runs before lunchtime. His dedication and skill were evident throughout those thirteen Test matches where he showcased an exceptional average bowling figure nearing sixteen runs per wicket taken (16.38).

Farewell Matches Planned

As his retirement approaches, Tim Murtagh is currently in the squad for Middlesex’s upcoming home Championship match against Warwickshire. This game will mark his ninety-first and final first-class appearance at Lord’s.

Following this match, Middlesex will conclude their red-ball campaign away at Nottinghamshire between September 26th and 29th. It promises to be an emotional farewell as Murtagh bids adieu to professional cricket after a remarkable career.