[2] A right-handed batsman and wicket-keeper,[1] Hone made his debut for Ireland in August 1875 playing against I Zingari.

After one more game against Oxford University[4] he was chosen to tour Australia under the captaincy of Lord Harris.

[5] When it became clear that the side lacked a regular wicket-keeper, Hone was drafted in for the only Test of the tour, playing against Australia in January 1879, becoming the first player to represent England without playing county cricket[5][6] and the first Irishman to represent England.

[3] He played one final first-class match for the MCC in 1880 against Oxford University at Lord's.

[4] He continued playing club cricket, and represented Ireland twice in 1883 before a final game against I Zingari in August 1888.