Tipperary manager Declan Ryan has said he was shocked when Lar Corbett told him of his plans to withdraw from the panel.
The 2010 Hurler of the Year has told Ryan that his work and business commitments had become too great to balance with his playing career.
The Premier boss said he would welcome the 30-year-old back should he wish to make a u-turn on his decision.
Former Tipperary manager Nickey English said the decision had taken everybody by surprise.
"I fully expected him to be back this year, playing well for Tipp...He was back in training…So it's a shock to everybody (and) ," he said.
"People are looking to read everything into it, but I don't think there's any more to it than Larry felt he couldn’t give the commitment that was required."
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