The Malahide man took over the present post in 1997, following the resignation of the previous incumbent, Derek Scott.
Explaining his decision he said, "The pace of change in Irish cricket is such that the relevance of my experience has little bearing on where we find ourselves. We have just appointed consultants to look at our governance and professional administration, and they should have a clean sheet. Finally, the sobering reality of age has also to be faced."
"My arrival as Honorary Secretary coincided with the start of the ICC DevelopmentProgramme, and it's been great having a say, however small, in the future of cricket, nationally and internationally, particularly in Europe. The excitement of Kuala Lumpur in 1997, the disappointment of Toronto in 2001, the elation on and off the field in our successful hosting of the ICC Trophy in 2005, and finally, the West Indies this year. What a journey, and I was there!"
ICU President Tom Prior paid tribute to Wright saying, "John Wright has been amarvellous ambassador for Irish cricket all over the world. His dedication and commitment to cricket in Ireland has been nothing short of remarkable, and I'd like to publicly acknowledge the debt and gratitude of all the cricketing fraternity in Ireland. He will be sorely missed."
