Former captain of Kilkenny, Cillian Buckley, has officially declared his departure from intercounty hurling. Joining the senior team in 2012 at the youthful age of 19, Buckley saw victorious success in his career with the black and amber, securing three All-Ireland senior titles. Asides from his role in the Dicksboro club, he also earned eight Leinster senior championships and five National titles in Hurling league.
Despite his challenge finding regular play in recent years, Buckley’s prowess was apparent when he scored a last-minute goal against Galway, positioning his team as winners in the 2023 Leinster final. Reflecting on this, Kilkenny manager Derek Lyng commended him as a dedicated and high-performing team player.
“Having had the privilege of working with Cillian and seeing firsthand his exceptional dedication to constantly better himself, was truly inspiring,” shared Lyng. He further extended his well wishes to Buckely, calling him an exemplar team player showing an extraordinary attitude throughout.
The county board chairman PJ Kenny also spoke in glowing terms about Buckley, expressing gratitude for his service to Kilkenny hurling on behalf of the Kilkenny County Board. He extended his best wishes for Buckley’s future, appreciating him for the joy and thrilling moments he provided to all the supporters over his distinguished career. Kenny stated, “We are indebted to Cillian for his contributions to the sport and his unforgettable role in Kilkenny hurling. We wish him immense success in his future pursuits.”
The achievements include three All-Ireland Senior Hurling Championships won in 2012, 2014 and 2015. They also triumphed in the Leinster Senior Hurling Championships for eight years (2014-2016, 2020-2024) and additionally, won competitions ‘b’ in the years 2012-2014, 2018, 2021. In 2017, they took the victory in the Walsh Cup, and earlier in 2012, they had won the Leinster U21 Hurling Championship. The leader in 2010, secured an All-Ireland Minor Hurling Championship. The team has two Leinster Minor Hurling Championship wins from 2009 and 2010, the same years they emerged victorious in the All-Ireland Senior Colleges Hurling Championship. They also excelled in the Kilkenny Senior Hurling Championship in 2017, the Kilkenny Intermediate Hurling Championship in 2010 and the Kilkenny Under 21 Hurling Championship in 2009. Furthermore, they clinched the Kilkenny Minor Hurling Championships twice in 2009 and 2010, and were awarded two All Stars in 2014 and 2015.