Tipperary's Paul Curran last night announced his retirement from inter county hurling.
The Mullinahone club man won four Munster Championships and started the 2010 All Ireland Final when Tipperary ended Kilkenny's five in a row hopes.
In a statement released last night by Curran, he said:
"Having had the great honour of being a member of the Tipperary Senior hurling panel for the past 15 years, I have decided to call time on my inter-county hurling career. It was a huge privilege for me to wear the blue and gold and to represent my county.
I would like to take this opportunity to express my sincere gratitude to the many people who have supported me during my hurling career. I am very grateful to all the players, management and backroom staff who have given me such support over the years. I want to thank my club, and the people of Mullinahone, for their loyalty and encouragement during my time playing with Tipperary. I want to thank especially my family and my wife, Tracy, for the sacrifices they have made and for their great support at all times.
I am very grateful for the many opportunities and friendships that being part of this team has afforded me and I have many great memories that I will forever treasure.
Finally, I want to wish Tipperary well for the future. I have great hopes for this team and have no doubt they will go on to bring many more honours to the county".
Speaking after hearing the news, Tipperary Co. Board Chairman, Michael Bourke, said "Paul was one of the finest backs of his generation and served his county with tremendous pride and honour. Paul was reliably consistant and was unfailing in his loyalty to the county throughout his career. On behalf of the Co. Board and Tipperary supporters I would sincerely like to wish Paul and his family the very best for the future and for continued success with his club Mullinahone"
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