John Francis Mooney, the Irish pace bowler, has recently been taken apart in an astounding and totally uncalled-for personal attack (see: www.herald.co.zw/alcoholic-dumps-zim-out-of-wc/ ) by the Zimbabwe Herald's World Cup reporter Robson Sharuko.



Not only did Mooney have his integrity fundamentally challenged by the Zimbabwe Herald's writer, but Sharuko tried to dredge up Mooney's depression and former-alcoholism, which Mooney has so bravely spoken out about.



For a start, we should be doing everything we can to applaud and support John for his incredible strength in overcoming some massive personal obstacles. That he is still a shining light for the Irish nation and their cricket team is testament to his character.



That his integrity was so unfairly shot down by Sharuko was disgraceful. John is an honest cricketer, who plays hard but within the laws and spirit of the game at all times.



This petition is to condemn Sharuko's appalling piece, but also to send our personal support to John. We want to say that no matter who we support, or what country we're from, we're all entirely behind you. #BackingJohn