Dunne calls it a day

GAA: Benny Dunne has decided to call time on his inter-county career after almost a decade spent hurling with the Tipperary …

GAA:Benny Dunne has decided to call time on his inter-county career after almost a decade spent hurling with the Tipperary senior team. The 31-year-old, who finally got his hands on an All-Ireland winner's medal last year, will continue to hurl with his club side Toomevara.

After making his senior debut in 2002, Dunne had to wait until 2009 to reach his first All-Ireland final but that ended in disappointment as he received his marching orders before Kilkenny claimed a fourth successive senior title.

Dunne was back the following September, however, to help stop Kilkenny’s ‘drive for five’ in its tracks and was also introduced at half-time during this year’s decider. As well as claiming an All-Ireland title, Dunne also won three Munster titles and a National Hurling League medal.

“It was a huge privilege for me at all times to represent Tipperary and I have many great memories to treasure,” Dunne said this evening. “I am grateful to all the players, management and backroom staff who have given me such support over the years . . . I have no doubt this current group of players will go on to bring many more honours to the county.”