The death occurred in Dublin yesterday of Joey O'Meara, one of the best known figures in Irish hockey and cricket circles. Aged 58, he had been battling against illness for the last six months.

A stalwart of Railway Union, his hockey career was at full back for his club, Leinster and Ireland, with whom he gained 52 caps between 1970-77. He will be remembered particularly for his performances in the inaugural European Cup in Brussels in 1970 and in the 1977 Intercontinental Cup in Rome when Ireland qualified for the World Cup for the first time.

He was also an inspiring captain when Ireland won the Santander Trophy in 1972. He went on to be appointed national coach in 1978 and later became a selector.

Also an international cricketer - he won two caps in 1963 - he brought much character into Dublin's sporting life and was highly regarded.