Irish duo in shock defections

IAN Sloan claimed Irish hockey has little chance of long-term success as he and David Ames rocked the sport by announcing their defections to England.

The Cookstown midfield pair formally notified the Irish Hockey Association yesterday of their decisions, withdrawing themselves from Irish selection and confirming they will pursue playing for England and Great Britain once a three-year wilderness period is served.

This is dated back to April 11, 2012 when they lined out against Germany, both scoring in a 2-1 win over a side that went on to be crowned Olympic champions.