Hughes made his debut for Ireland against Hampshire in September 1965 in a first-class match. It was very much a poor start to his international career, as he scored a duck in each innings and only took one wicket, and he did not play for Ireland again for almost three years.
Hughes made his first appearance for Ireland against Hampshire in September 1965 in a significant match. His early international experience was characterized by a disappointing performance, as he scored no runs in both innings and secured only one wicket, leading to him not participating in the team for almost three years.