Ireland Leg-Spinner Ben White Announces Retirement From International Cricket

Published: October 29, 2026, 6:37 am

Ireland leg-spinner Ben White has confirmed his retirement from representative cricket, effective Wednesday, October 28. The 28-year-old bowler, who made his international debut during a 2021 T20I against South Africa in Belfast, concludes a career that saw him earn 43 caps across all formats. His final appearance in the national jersey occurred in December 2025 during a match against Bangladesh. “On these occasions, it’s always with mixed feelings that I respond to a retirement such as Ben’s. On one hand, I wish him well and congratulate him on a career into which he dedicated so much time and effort. But on the other hand, I know first-hand how much he put into pursuing his dream of playing for Ireland and am pleased that he achieved over 40 caps for his country and he will be missed around the group,” Ireland head c.

Reflecting on his journey, White expressed his gratitude toward Cricket Ireland for helping him realize his childhood ambitions. He highlighted the honor of representing his nation at the highest level, noting that his career achievements—including participation in three ICC Men’s T20 World Cup squads in 2021, 2024, and 2026, alongside three Test appearances in 2023—were deeply meaningful experiences. Over the course of his international tenure, he claimed a total of 41 wickets. In Tests, White represented Ireland thrice with all three appearances coming in 2023.

White’s primary contribution remained in the shortest format, where 38 of his 43 total international appearances were made. He leaves behind a legacy defined by his distinctive ability to generate bounce and bowl at significant pace, qualities that made him a challenging prospect for opposing batters throughout his career.

Ireland head coach Gary Wilson led the tributes for the departing spinner, noting the mixed emotions surrounding the announcement. Wilson acknowledged the immense dedication White showed in pursuing his international dream, stating that the team would miss his presence. He emphasized that White’s consistent selection for three T20 World Cup squads served as a testament to the high regard in which he was held by the coaching staff and his teammates, adding that the spinner has every reason to be proud of his contributions to Irish cricket.