Munster’s winger and centre Barry Murphy decided to hang up his boots – Rugby news
Munster’s pivotal backs player, Barry Murphy, has announced his retirement from the rugby field. Earlier today on Thursday, May 19, Munster Rugby confirmed that Barry Murphy has decided to take his leave fromrugby.
Providing the details about the decision, the club representative said that Murphy’s ongoing foot problem had forced him to make this decision. The club has expressed their gratitude and wished Murphy best of luck for his future
endeavours.
Commenting on his decision, Munster’s Murphy said, “The past 7 to 8 years have been a wonderful time in my life, playing with Munster. I've made loads of friends here in this squad, enjoyed some great times and I wouldn't trade a moment of it.”
Nicked named “Bambi” by his colleagues, Murphy further added that some people termed him unlucky to not being able to achieve more. He said, "People say to me I've been unlucky and while I appreciate what they mean I don't see it that way,"
29-year-old Murphy joined Munster Rugby Club during the 2003/04 season. Since then he has made 73 appearances for the club and scored 75 points. All his points came through tries with eight of the 15 tries coming during the 2008/09 season.
Murphy has been an exceptional player for the Munster over the years and played an important role during the club’s campaign to lift the Heineken Cup title in 2006.
During 2003/04 season, Murphy played three games and scored a try in the three games he played as substitute. In 2005/06 season Murphy played 16 games in the season, started the game 13 times, and scored a single try in the season.
2006, was the golden year for the Murphy as his strong performance in both domestic and the European level helped him to be called up to the big stage. During 2006/07 season, Murphy played 20 games and scored three tries.
During the same season, Murphy with his Man of the Match performance helped Munster to defeat Sale Sharks at Thomond Park. Later in March 2006, Murphy broke his leg during the Magners League round matches against the Ulster. The injury ruled him out of the
Heineken Cup final that Munster eventually won.
His exceptional performance and form on the field earned him a call for the Ireland International Rugby Union team. Murphy made his international debut against Argentina during Ireland’s 2007 tour of Argentina.
Murphy played four international games. His most memorable performance against the international teams came against the All Blacks. All Blacks were touring the Northern Hemisphere in 2008 and in their match against the Munster’s at Thomond Park, Murphy scored
a try. This was the only try All Blacks conceded in the whole tour.
Reports say that Murphy is planning to start his career as rugby commentator following his retirement.
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