Lar Corbett is fourth Tipp player to retire this week

Former hurler of the year Lar Corbett has joined the recent exodus from the Tipperary hurling team, announcing his retirement on Wednesday afternoon.

The two-time All-Ireland winner and three-time All Star was one of the most talented forwards of the modern generation, man-of-the-match in the 2010 All-Ireland final, which won him his second All-Ireland title with Tipperary - and also earned him the hurler of the year award for that season

“Over the past 15 years I have enjoyed many great times playing senior hurling with Tipperary,” he said, “but I have decided that now is the time to announce my retirement.

“Our All-Ireland winning years of 2001 and 2010 will always be special highlights, and there will be many others as well.

“Playing intercounty hurling requires lots of time and commitment, and I am particularly grateful to my wife Elaine and family and friends for giving me the time, opportunity and support to pursue my sporting ambitions.”

“Finally I want to wish Tipperary well for the future.”

A statement from the Tipperary County Board on Corbett’s exit said he had “guaranteed his place for eternity in hurling history”.

“Tipperary County Board extends its best wishes to Lar Corbett on the announcement of his retirement from the Tipperary senior hurling panel,” read the statement.

“During a wonderful and illustrious career, Lar at the height of his powers had few equals.

“Blessed with exquisite skill and breath-taking pace, Lar’s performance in the 2010 All-Ireland Final in which he scored three scintillating goals on Tipp’s way to victory guaranteed his place for eternity in hurling history and put him among the legion of greats in our treasured game.

“Of the many awards bestowed on him in 2010, he was also named hurler of the year confirming without question Lar’s contribution to Tipperary’s successes over his career.

“We are very grateful to him for his long, dedicated and decorated service to the county and we wish him all the best for the future.”

Now aged 34, Corbett becomes the fourth member of that 2010 All-Ireland winning team to retire in the last seven days: both of Tipperary's current midfielders announced their retirement in recent days, with both Shane McGrath and James Woodlock setting aside, and before then, defender Conor O'Mahony also decided to step aside.

Corbett also won six Munster titles and two National league titles.