O'Connor to be next Cork hurling manager

Cork are set to name Ben O’Connor as their new senior hurling manager.

The three-time All-Ireland SHC winner has been proposed for the role by the sub-committee charged with finding a replacement for Pat Ryan, who stepped down less than a fortnight ago in the wake of the Rebels’ All-Ireland final defeat to Tipperary. The sub-committee comprised Cork GAA chairman Pat Horgan, vice-chairman Noel O’Callaghan and CEO Kevin O’Donovan.

O'Connor will be ratified at next Tuesday's county board meeting.

Cork GAA said in a statement: "Cork GAA is pleased to confirm that Ben O'Connor of Newtownshandrum will be recommended as manager of the Cork senior hurling team on a three-year term for approval at the next Cork County Committee meeting on Tuesday, September 2nd. His selection team will also be confirmed at this meeting."

Cork GAA chairperson Pat Horgan added: "We are delighted that someone of Ben O’Connor’s calibre is available to take up this hugely important position.

"We believe that Ben has all the credentials to build on the wonderful work done by the previous management team, and to lead this talented group of players forward. I wish him every success and I am sure our supporters will get fully behind Ben and his team."

O’Connor won three All-Ireland SHC medals as a player, captaining his county to Liam MacCarthy Cup glory in 2004, before managing the Rebels to an All-Ireland U20HC title two years ago. He also led Charleville to county Premier IHC success in 2018 and coached Midleton to a Premier SHC title in 2021.

Cork GAA Statement | Post of Manager of Cork Senior Hurling Team. https://t.co/lkqiuv2Jkh pic.twitter.com/XhRN0oiwAf

— Cork GAA (@OfficialCorkGAA) August 28, 2025