Since Kilkenny won the All Ireland hurling title, they have had to contend with a spate of retirements.

Today three players called it day. Among them was Brian Hogan and Aidan Fogarty who have a massive 15 All Irelands between them.

We had the pleasure of being joined by them on Off The Ball tonight where they shed light on their decisions to retire.

"I kind of knew after the All Ireland that this is it," said Hogan, "it's a good time to step away and we're fortunate that it's in our hands to step away."

He added that the biggest wrench would be leaving the dressing room camaraderie and team bonds behind.

Fogarty was not a regular during the recent All Ireland run in Brian Cody's team.

"It's like a business to Brian. He picks people on form and always has done. I suppose I've lived by the sword and I die by the sword. I got my chance and I thank Brian Cody for that. He saw something in me obviously and I was starting for a long time," he said, also revealing the importance of A versus B games.