Stars Butler and Shaw quit international scene

IRELAND’S senior men’s squad is more than 300 caps lighter in terms of experience following yesterday’s decision by Glenanne duo Stephen Butler and Graham Shaw to bring the curtain down on their international careers.

While Butler in particular had indicated a desire to stay on to help Ireland attempt to reach the 2012 Olympics, the increasing commitment required for international hockey has seen both decide to bow out.

Midfielder-turned-sweeper Butler departs as Ireland’s most capped player – 163 appearances – and the country’s top goalscorer, with a remarkable 79 strikes since making his debut against Japan in 1999.