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16th January 2015
11:06am GMT

Kilkenny still use the system of letting the county champions pick the following season's captain and so Brian Cody was never in the situation where he could get the wing-back to lead his charges out onto the field in summertime.
But for Cody and many Kilkenny fans he was the captain and de facto leader on the good and bad days. In 2010, despite the perfect storm by Tipperary, he was still in the thick of the action and on his way to another All-Star.
Perhaps his versatility has hampered him, being able to play in defence, midfield and attack. Unlike football, where the pace of play is slower which can allow a full-back to get up in support of his attack, or a forward to roam out to midfield for possession, Walsh could only do so much. Hurling is very much about personal responsibility. If his brother Paraic had come along sooner perhaps the two Walshs could have complimented the talent around them to get to a county decider.
Walsh's club career is not over by a long shot and it may not be too late for him to feature in an All-Ireland club series. He will only turn 33 in May and without having to be put through the gruelling Nowlan Park sessions under Cody anymore, he should be a fresh presence for Tullaroan come the beginning of championship action.
There is no doubt as to Kilkenny's incredible record at intermediate in the club series and the west Kilkenny side should have more than a chance of regaining their senior status at the first attempt. If they do so it may finally allow Walsh the chance to experience life in the AIB-GAA All-Ireland Club championship and walk up the steps of Nowlan Park on county final day.
Perhaps Kilkenny's loss will be Tullaroan's gain.Explore more on these topics: