Chance for players to step up, says Hayes

In inter-county hurling, the intermediate grade serves two purposes. There is of course the provincial and All-Ireland championships and the chance to win medals in a county jersey.

Beyond that though, it also acts as a finishing school for those players considered worthy of a shot at senior and that is something Cork have benefited from in the recent past.

The Rebels take on Wexford at Nowlan Park in tomorrow’s All-Ireland final (3pm) and manager Liam Hayes believes the stars of the side can push on like others before them.