THERE was a lot of extra responsibility resting on the shoulders of the Cork intermediate team in the lead-up to this All-Ireland final, and not just within the county.

IT’S been a mutually beneficial relationship. Since Anthony Nash first stood between the posts for the Cork intermediate hurlers in 2003, he’s given the grade unwavering focus. In return he’s picked up three All-Ireland medals – in 2003, 2004 and 2006 – and even though he’s played in bigger matches since, his interest in this afternoon’s All-Ireland IHC final is undiluted.

FORMER Ireland rugby fitness coach Mike McGurn has joined the Cork senior hurling backroom team.