Tipperary hurler Conor O’Brien has announced his retirement from county hurling. The 31-year-old won two All-Ireland titles and five Munster titles with the Premier county after making his debut in 2007.

“Since I first joined the Tipperary senior hurling panel in 2007, I have always felt it a great privilege and honour to represent my county at senior level. Having enjoyed it immensely, I have decided that now is the time to announce my retirement,” he said in a statement.

“I will greatly miss being involved with the Tipperary senior hurling panel as all involved among the players, management and backroom team are very special people. I have many great memories and made many lifelong friendships over the last decade.

“I want to thank all the players sincerely, we had great and some disappointing times together but we have always been united in our ambition to bring success to Tipperary.”

On hearing of Conor’s retirement, Tipperary Co. Board Chairman, Michael Bourke spoke highly of Conor: “Players of Conor O’Brien’s stature are invaluable to any side and are the bedrock on which all teams are built.

“Since joining up with the Tipperary squad in ’07 Conor has shown complete and selfless dedication, commitment and above all else tremendous heart and desire to be at his best personally and also for Tipperary.

“A true leader and great character, his presence will be missed most in the dressing room and on the fields of play. On behalf of all Tipperary supporters I want to sincerely thank Conor O’Brien for his service to Tipperary hurling over the years and wish him, his wife Claire and son Cillian every happiness now and for the future.”