The Echo Sport Podcast: Ben O'Connor in as Cork hurling boss, what changes he'll make for 2026 

Ben O'Connor, the standout candidate, has been selected to replace Pat Ryan as Cork hurling manager.

On this week's podcast, the Echo crew discuss his appointment.

The former All-Star forward with Newtown and Cork built up an impressive CV in recent years, coaching Charleville and Midleton to county success, as well as overseeing the Cork U20s' All-Ireland victory in 2023.

O'Connor was one of the greatest Cork hurlers of the modern era, winning an All-Ireland as captain in 2004 and Man of the Match in '05. 

He was just 20 in 1999 when a young, fearless Rebel side captured Liam MacCarthy and we look at the new faces he will call up for Cork duty next season.

A host of brilliant young hurlers in their early 20s are ready to stake a claim. Will some of the veterans step away to usher in a new era?

EDGE

O'Connor will have Ronan Curran in his backroom team and they'll be tasked with adding an edge to a Cork team that came agonisingly close to glory in back-to-back All-Irelands. 

When tuned in and firing, the Rebels took down the all-conquering Limerick but their collapse against Tipp in July showed the pressure they're under to edge the long wait for ultimate glory.

How will O'Connor and his backroom team handle the mental side of their preparation? 

We also look at Ray Keane's prospects as Cork U20 football manager and Kevin Murray's addition to the senior football set-up.

DOMINANT

There's a look at Imokilly's victory in the Premier Senior Hurling Divisional final, despite the brave efforts of Muskerry. Can the Seán Óg Murphy Cup winners retain their crown?

It's a huge weekend on the club hurling front with the last group games taking place and we pick out the matches to catch in the various grades.

Now in its third season, every week Éamonn Murphy will be joined by The Echo team, including Barry O'Mahony, Denis Hurley, Rory Noonan, Jack McKay, John Horgan and more to discuss all the latest Cork GAA news on and off the field.

You can listen to the Echo Sport Podcast every week wherever you get your podcasts or on www.echolive.ie/podcast.