Jimmy Barry-Murphy steps down as Cork boss

Jimmy Barry-Murphy has stepped down as Cork senior hurling manager.

There has been speculation over the former dual star's future ever since Cork's disappointing defeat to Galway in the All-Ireland quarter-final, and he confirmed his departure with a statement on Saturday night.

"I have given a great deal of thought to Cork hurling since the defeat by Galway in the All-Ireland Quarter-final, and I now feel that the time is right for me to step down as manager," it read.

"I want to sincerely thank the players, selectors, backroom support team and County Board for all their efforts in the last four years.

"I also want to thank our loyal supporters who always travelled in huge numbers in tough economic times to support us. I know that Cork will continue to challenge for major honours in the years ahead. I wish everyone the very best next year and in the years to come."

Barry-Murphy had one year left of his term, having originally returned as Cork manager as the end of 2011. He first managed Cork from 1995-2000, guiding the county to the 1999 All-Ireland title.

Following his return in 2011, he guided Cork to the 2013 All-Ireland final and they were within seconds of defeating Clare in the first game, before Domhnall O'Donovan's last gasp equaliser secured a replay, which Clare subsequently won.

Cork won the Munster title the following year, but were comprehensively beaten by Tipperary in the All-Ireland semi-final.

This season, Cork reached the Division I league final, but were beaten by Waterford. That loss was followed by a defeat to the Déise in the Munster semi-final, and after beating Wexford and Clare in the Qualifiers, Cork lost heavily to Galway in the quarter-final.

Earlier this week, Jimmy Barry-Murphy was inducted into the GAA Hall of Fame for his exploits as a footballer and hurler, a career that ranks him among the greatest players to have played either game.

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