All-Star Tipperary defender Philip Maher has been ruled out of the 2003 Championship due to a cruciate ligament injury.
Maher turned awkwardly in the Allianz NHL final on Monday last against Kilkenny and limped out of the game.
His worst fears were confirmed yesterday morning when he attended Dr Tadgh O'Sullivan at Waterford Regional Hospital.
Maher becomes the second Tipperary player in three weeks to undergo cruciate ligament surgery. John Leahy was operated on two weeks ago.
Better news for Tipperary is that midfielder Noel Morris is likely to be fine for Sunday week's clash with Clare in the Championship first round.