Cork hurling has received the perfect boost at the perfect time with the news that defender Brian Murphy has rejoined the panel ahead of their Munster semi-final against Waterford on June 7th.

The two-time All-Ireland medallist announced his retirement last year. But having shown excellent form with his club, Bride Rovers, he was asked back by manager Jimmy Barry-Murphy and the player duly agreed to return.

Having lost Christopher Joyce and then Lorcán McLoughlin to injury, Cork were short of defensive experience – and Barry-Murphy has expressed his appreciation at Murphy's decision to return.