Kilkenny star Padraig Walsh has brought the curtain down on his stellar 11-year inter-county hurling career.

The 31-year-old Tullaroan clubman has called it a day after winning All-Ireland SHC medals in 2014 and '15 as well as two All-Star awards. One of the most stylish and versatile players in the game, Walsh told the Irish Independent that  he was “feeling it in the body” and won't be returning in 2024.

The teacher first represented the Cats at minor level in 2009 before going on to make his senior debut against Waterford in the 2013 Allianz League. After being dropped for the drawn 2014 All-Ireland SHC final against Tipperary, he regained his starting place for the replay and also starred at wing back as Kilkenny retained the Liam MacCarthy Cup 12 months later at Galway's expense.

Kilkenny GAA said in a statement: "Pádraig Walsh is retiring from inter-county hurling following a stellar career in the black and amber. 

"A pillar of the Kilkenny defence, Pádraig has won seven Leinster titles and two All-Ireland’s, along with many other accolades, over the course of his career with Kilkenny.

"On behalf of Derek Lyng & his management team and Kilkenny County Board, we wish Pádraig the very best in his retirement from inter-county hurling. Padraig’s achievements and service to Kilkenny GAA speak for themselves."

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