Wexford's Shaun Murphy announces inter-county retirement

Wexford's Shaun Murphy has confirmed his retirement from inter-county hurling.

The Oulart-The Ballagh man made his championship debut in 2013 against Offaly, having joined the Model County squad the previous year.

The highlight of his Yellowbelly career was undoubtedly their 2019 Leinster triumph as they landed a first provincial crown in 15 years after victory over Kilkenny at Croke Park.

Murphy missed most of this year with a back injury although he was back on the field to help his club beat Taghmon-Camross in the Wexford intermediate final. Murphy has also won seven senior county titles with Oulart during his career, with a plan to continue playing with them for the foreseeable future.

"After 11 years of hurling for Wexford, I think now is the right time to announce my retirement from inter-county hurling," Murphy said.

"It has been a tough and frustrating 18 months with an ongoing injury and unfortunately I don't think I can give the energy and commitment required.

"It was a huge honour and privilege to wear the purple and gold and I am very grateful to have had the opportunity.

"I would like to thank all the players and management teams over the years, many of who have now become lifelong friends.

"Thanks too to my family, my fiancée Leanne and my little boy Rían, who have given immense support and encouragement throughout the years.

"Finally, thanks to my club Oulart-The Ballagh, where it all started. I look forward to hopefully wearing the red and black for many more years.

"I would like to wish Wexford the very best of luck in 2023 and the future."

It's a setback for manager Darragh Egan as the Yellowbellies look to better an inconsistent 2022. They mixed a victory over Kilkenny and a draw against Galway with defeat to