Sussex batsman Ed Joyce has retired from county cricket due to international commitments with Ireland.

Joyce has decided to concentrate his efforts with Ireland and his provincial team Leinster having undergone knee surgery last winter.

He said: “County cricket has been a huge part of my life for the last 18 years and it is with a tinge of sadness that I've decided not to play this season or beyond.

“I fully intended on playing at least some cricket for Sussex in 2017 but the realities of my various injuries, alongside my playing commitments here in Ireland have meant that this isn't possible.”

Joyce told Sussex boss Mark Davis and skipper Luke Wright he would not be available for forthcoming county action when they enquired recently.

He added: “There's no doubt in my mind I played my best cricket at Sussex and I owe a huge debt of gratitude to the coaches, players, supporters and environment at the club that allowed me to do this.

“I'll always feel like I'm coming home when I visit Hove in the future, which I plan to do as often as possible as a spectator.

“On a sunny day in the summer there's no better city to be in, or ground at which to watch cricket.

“On the playing side, I'm still enjoying competing for Ireland and Leinster. With the prospect of Test cricket and full membership potentially on the horizon, it's an exciting time for Irish cricket and I want to play my part in this process as long as I feel I can contribute on the field.”