“It’s next man up, and that’s when someone has to take their opportunity” | Barry Nash on squad mantra in the face of injuries

Limerick were left without reigning hurler of the year Cian Lynch for the majority of the championship

Injuries were a common theme throughout Limerick’s 2022 championship campaign as they hindered the Shannonsiders up until the final.

Most notably, Cian Lynch had a lengthy spell on the sidelines before making a cameo in the semi-final against Galway. Limerick were hopeful to have the 2021 Hurler of the Year fully fit for the final, until a training injury just seven days prior ruled him out.

Peter Casey only made his return to action in the semi-final, following an ACL injury suffered during last year’s final while Barry Murphy returned to the squad for the first time last Sunday.

Outside of that, Limerick spent time without the likes of Kyle Hayes, William O’Donoghue and Aaron Gillane while Mike Casey missed the entirety of the League.

One man who was an ever-present throughout the campaign was Barry Nash who is one of the front runners for the hurler of the year award.

The South Liberties man established himself on the team in 2020 after Casey and Richie English suffered knee ligament injuries as he converted to corner back.

And speaking on the sides versatility and ability to adapt, Nash spoke of the teams mantra.

“Ciano’s a massive leader, the best hurler in the country in my opinion. It was obviously hard to see him go down but like John always says ‘next man up’, and that’s when someone has to take their opportunity and that’s what we do every single time.

“I remember when Mike Casey went down from the full-back line and Dan had to come back, Kyle had to come back half-back, that’s the way we’ve to do it.”

But despite not being on the pitch, Lynch’s contribution off the field didn’t go unnoticed as he gave a talk to his team-mates before they stepped out onto the pitch.

Nash had high praise for the Patrickswell man and the influence he has on the side.

“Ciano’s (Cian Lynch) message was simple, go out and enjoy it. That’s what we kind of did today we obviously work hard to win the game but enjoy every second of it.”

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