Cian McCarthy leaves Cork hurling panel

Cian McCarthy has opted off the Cork senior hurling panel, it was confirmed this morning.

The Sarsfields clubman, who is a son of legendary dual player Teddy McCarthy, has been a member of the Cork squad since 2008, but had struggled to secure a regular starting spot in the team in recent years.

"Cian has been a great servant to Cork hurling, but now wants to take a break from the inter-county scene due to work and other commitments," Cork manager Jimmy Barry-Murphy said in a statement. "We are very sorry lose him but we respect his wishes and the door is open should he chose to return."

McCarthy, who played in the half-forward line, informed the management of his decision to opt off the panel ahead of Cork's Allianz Hurling League Division IA clash with Tipperary on Sunday.

McCarthy had not started any of Cork's previous four Allianz League games this spring.