Maher won’t be rushing back on the pitch

BRENDAN MAHER isn’t sure if he’ll be out on the pitch for Tipperary’s Munster semi-final against Clare on June 19, but the chances are Declan Ryan will have to find a new water boy for that Gaelic Grounds date.

It won’t be just because he cost his county board a few euro in fines for an on-field incursion to pass on some advice that those closest to the camp will want him togged out against the Banner though.

After all, Maher is the 2010 Young Hurler of the Year, having been a dominant midfield presence in Tipp’s Liam MacCarthy Cup triumph last term. He quickly followed up by anchoring the Premier defence as they strolled to U21 success and wasshowing no signs of waning when breaking his ankle pucking around in his back garden ten weeks ago.