Relaxed Cody enjoying moment and plans to keep powerful panel in play

Brian Cody was in high spirits after this latest triumph by Kilkenny under his baton, and why not?

Another league title, Kilkenny’s eighth since he took charge, to go with the nine All-Ireland championships in the bag.

There are those of course who disdain speaking of both in the same breath — not Brian. First question to him yesterday was on how far he reckoned this was from championship hurling. “About five weeks I suppose!” his initial jovial reaction. Then down to business.