Cork Hurling 2026 Ben OConnor Revamps Team Lineup with Fresh Changes

As Cork hurling prepares for the 2026 season, new manager Ben O’Connor is revamping the team lineup with significant changes. O’Connor’s initiative comes as the team is set to resume collective training on November 21, 2025. Ahead of this, he has already made vital recalls and adjustments to the squad.

Notable Additions to the Squad

Dáire O’Leary and Brian O’Sullivan are among the prominent players returning to the senior panel. O’Leary, who played a crucial role in his club’s success in recent championships, had been sidelined due to injury during the previous season. His performance in the 2024 Premier IHC helped his team achieve county, Munster, and All-Ireland triumphs.

Brian O’Sullivan, a midfielder who competed in the successful U20 campaign, is also anticipated to make his mark this season. His prior experience includes being part of the team that won three Fitzgibbon Cups with University of Limerick.

Pre-Season Preparations

Before the Allianz Hurling League kicks off at the end of January 2026, Cork will have opportunities to assess the players. The upcoming Canon O’Brien Cup match against UCC serves as a platform for evaluation. Additionally, the Co-op SuperStores Munster Hurling League is expected to return, although details regarding its format remain undecided.

Emerging Talents and Opportunities

Cork is anticipated to utilize a broad squad for pre-season games before narrowing down selections for the league. Several young players are expected to step into more prominent roles:

• Cian Darcy, following impressive performances with Sarsfields.
• Colm McCarthy, who has been part of the Cork panel but is recovering from injury.
• Dáire O’Leary’s teammate Seán Desmond.
• Younger players like Barry Walsh and Jack Leahy, who are looking to make an impact.
• Brian Keating from Ballincollig and Hugh O’Connor from Newmarket are also in contention.

Players Departing from the Squad

The team will see notable departures as well. Patrick Horgan has announced his retirement, marking the end of an era. Other players such as Conor Lehane, Luke Meade, Robbie Cotter, and Daniel Hogan are also expected to leave the squad.

With these fresh additions and changes, Cork hurling looks to build a competitive team for the upcoming season, aiming to defend their title from the previous year. The new dynamics under Ben O’Connor’s leadership signal an exciting year ahead.