Claire Molloy has retired from international rugby after representing Ireland for 12 years.
The 33-year-old Galway native is likely to be the first of many to hang up their boots after Adam Griggs' side failed to qualify for next year's world cup.
During her time with Ireland, flanker Molloy earned 74 international caps, played at three world cups and captained Ireland at the 2017 tournament, which was held in Ireland.
Molloy originally played Ladies Gaelic Football, and represented Galway at inter-county level, before switching to rugby while studying medicine at Cardiff University.
She was named Ireland's Player of the Year in 2012 and the Guinness Rugby Writers' Player of the Year in 2017.
Time to begin a new chapter #74andout pic.twitter.com/bXkHArINLi
— Claire molloy (@claire_mol) September 27, 2021
Announcing the news on Twitter on Monday evening, she thanked those who she had worked with over the years as well as her family.
"12 years in the Green shirt, not the ending I would have wanted. So many memories, priceless highs and some rock bottom lows.
"To all the coaches, physios, team managers S&Cs and all the backroom staff, thank you for guiding me along the way and often patching me back together at times.
"To the players I've shared the pitch with, it's been an honour. So many fantastic inspiring women I get to call friends.
"To my best supporters, my Mum and Dad, thank you for following me all over the world to watch.
"74 and out."
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