Brian Cody has stepped down as Kilkenny senior hurling team manager.

Since being appointed in November 1998 Cody steered Kilkenny to 11 All-Ireland SHC titles, 18 Leinster Championships, 10 Allianz Hurling Leagues, seven Walsh Cup triumphs, and an Oireachtas Tournament win.

A Kilkenny GAA statement said: "In achieving all of this success Brian has created an unbreakable spirit among his players and teams which has come to define Kilkenny hurling.

"On behalf of Kilkenny people everywhere, Kilkenny County Board extends sincere gratitude to Brian for his lifetime of contribution to the county and the commitment and passion he brought as a player and as manager, working tirelessly with a single aim, to do what was best for Kilkenny hurling. The Board would also like to acknowledge the bond Brian helped create between team management, players, County Board, clubs and Supporters Clubs as all worked seamlessly together in preparing our teams while organising and promoting our games.

"We are aware of the huge debt we owe Brian for the wonderful successes and occasions we have enjoyed as we watched the teams he created play and succeed. Wherever and whenever our games are discussed in the future, Brian Cody’s achievements will be the benchmark managers will be measured by."