He played first-class cricket for Ireland 25 times from 1958–1977.[3] An all rounder, he scored 614 runs at an average of 15.74.[4] His only first-class century, a score of 117, came against Scotland in 1976.[5][6] With his fast-medium bowling, O'Riordan took 75 wickets at a bowling average of 21.38.[7] His best innings bowling figures, one of two five wicket hauls he would take, saw him claim 6/35 against the MCC in 1966.[8][9] An able fielder, he also took 19 catches.[4] Including minor matches, O'Riordan took 206 wickets and scored 2,018 runs for Ireland, until this record was surpassed by Kyle McCallan.[2] He captained Ireland on 28 occasions.[2]
In 1969, when Ireland won a famous fixture against the touring West Indies team, O'Riordan took 4/18 as the West Indies were bowled out for 25, bowling through the entire innings with Douglas Goodwin. He then scored 35 as Ireland batted on after overhauling the West Indies total.[10]
He continued to play club cricket for just over a decade following his final first-class match for Ireland, scoring 10,705 runs and taking 849 wickets at club level.[2]
Cricket administration
He served as a national team selector. He was also president of the Irish Cricket Union.[2]
Personal life
Outside of cricket, he worked as a consulting engineer. His wife, Geraldine Hannigan, is a former presenter on RTÉ.[2]