It’s a question that remains to be answered and for now, at least, Hogan is remaining tight-lipped.
When Richie Hogan stepped onto the field of play in the closing moments of this year’s All-Ireland senior hurling championship final it felt like something of a swan song.
The Danesfort man hadn’t featured across the league and up until that point hadn’t featured across the Leinster championship or Kilkenny’s All-Ireland tilt, despite being named on the bench for the semi-final against Clare.
But yet, when he’s there, you can be sure there’s a bit of magic not too far away and you can guarantee he’ll be ready to make an impact when called upon.
So was that Sunday in Croke Park the last we’ve seen of Richie Hogan in a Kilkenny jersey. Maybe, maybe not.
Hogan is due to line out tonight with a wealth of stars from around the country as the annual Hurling For Cancer event returns to St. Conleth’s Park in Newbridge at 6pm.
Speaking to KCLR on Monday evening, Hogan hinted at uncertainty over his involvement with Kilkenny under new manager Derek Lyng.
“I don’t know”, said Hogan when asked if he would be returning for the 2023 season.
“We’re all – the whole of Kilkenny – hugely appreciative of Brian (Cody) over the effort he gave to Kilkenny hurling over the last 25 years and however many years as a play. I think everybody is also just as enthused and excited to see what Derek Lyng will bring.”
“I haven’t spoken to Derek at all but I would say out of respect to Derek, he’ll be the first man I’ll be telling what my plans will be for 2023. I’m looking forward to speaking to Derek at some stage but for now I’m not entirely sure whether I’ll be featuring or not.”
Hogan will be lining out against the Brian Cody-managed Davy Russell side tonight in Newbridge. Gates for the Hurling For Cancer game open with entertainment from 4.30pm with the match underway from 6pm.
