JOHN MOONEY HAS left Ireland’s tour of the West Indies and will return home to resume treatment for a “stress-related illness.”

Cricket Ireland said that Mooney has been managing the undisclosed illness “for some time” but will fly home after his condition deteriorated.

The North County cricketer was part of a 15-man squad in the Caribbean for the Nagico Super50 competition as well as internationals against the West Indies.

He played in Friday’s defeat against Guyana but pulled out before Ireland’s second game and was replaced by Stuart Thompson last night in the six-wicket defeat against Jamaica.

Cricket Ireland said: “John has been receiving treatment for his condition for some time and has been able to manage it to a sufficient degree to continue playing international cricket.

“However, it became clear over the last 24 hours that John’s condition had deteriorated, and the decision was taken to get him home as quickly as possible to resume his treatment.

“He is returning to Dublin to be with his family this evening and will take no part in the remainder of the tour.”

Chief executive Warren Deutrom promised Cricket Ireland’s support for “an incredibly passionate cricketer who has performed with distinction for Ireland over more than a decade.”

Cricketing matters come a poor second where health issues are concerned. The most important thing for John is to get the support and care he needs to aid his recovery – Cricket Ireland will endeavour to do all that it can to aid this process.

“John and his family has asked for privacy while he recovers and I would urge everyone to respect their wish at this difficult time.”

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