Kieran Kingston has decided not to remain on as Cork senior hurling team manager after turning down the offer of a second two-year term from the Cork County Board.

Kingston was manager for the 2017 and 2016 campaigns, and prior to that served as a team selector in 2012 and 2013 and team coach in 2014.

He oversaw a significant improvement in the team's performances this year as they won the Munster title before being beaten in the All-Ireland semi-final by Waterford. 

Commenting on the announcement, Cork County Board Chairman Gerard Lane said: "It’s a huge disappointment to see Kieran leave this position after such huge progress during the two years of his management.

"The performances of the team throughout the League and Championship were a direct result of Kieran’s input and he has left Cork hurling in a very good place.

"Our board had an outstanding relationship with Kieran and his backroom team and we are very sorry to see his departure,” Lane continued. "Many new players got the opportunity to develop under his management and proved their worth in Championship 2017 only  going down to Waterford in the All Ireland Semi Final.

“Kieran has laid a very solid foundation and left the team in a very good position and on behalf of all in Cork GAA, I wish to sincerely thank him for his wonderful contribution to Cork hurling.

"I would hope Kieran will stay involved in some capacity with Cork but I fully understand the demands on an inter-county manager and I wish him the very best for the future."