Kyle McCallan honoured with MBE

Kyle McCallan, the Ireland allrounder, who retired in December last year after a 13-year career, has been awarded the MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire).

McCallan played 226 matches, captaining in a record 54 games. He captured 256 wickets with his offspinners, third on the all-time list behind Dermott Montieth and Jimmy Boucher. He's also scored 3616 runs at 23.33, again No.3 in the list of highest run-getters from his country behind Stephen Warke and Ivan Anderson. McCallan was part of the Ireland team that reached the Super Eights of the 2007 World Cup in the West Indies after beating Pakistan in the preliminary stage.

"It's a great honour for me personally, but also my wife and parents. I was privileged to have worn the Irish jersey for over 13 years, and I had some fantastic experiences. I've been fortunate to have made some wonderful friends through cricket, and have memories which I'll cherish. It was quite simply a golden age for Irish cricket," McCallan said.

Ireland team manager Roy Torrens, who himself was honoured in the Queen's Birthday List in 2009, said: "I cannot think of another person who is more deserving of the award. He was a magnificent ambassador for Irish cricket, both on and off the field. I'm delighted for him and his family circle - they were wonderful supporters for him throughout his Irish career, and I know just how proud they must feel."

Cricket Ireland Chairman David Williams added: "The award of the MBE to Kyle McCallan is a well deserved honour for one of our most distinguished cricketers. Kyle McCallan served Irish cricket in an exemplary fashion during his 13 year career, and was a perfect role model to both his team-mates and supporters of cricket in Ireland. It's a great honour for both him and Irish cricket."