Irish sport woke up to some distressing news this morning.
Tipperary's 24-year-old forward Noel McGrath will have surgery this Friday, after it was discovered he has testicular cancer.
The county board released a short statement this morning to say that the Loughmore-Castleiney man, who has won three Munster Championships and an All-Ireland title in 2010 has been diagnosed with the condition.
"Noel McGrath will undergo surgery for testicular cancer on Friday 17th of April. The Tipperary senior hurling squad, senior hurling management, Tipperary county board and all Tipperary supporters wish Noel Well during this time and we look forward to welcoming him back in the Tipperary colours in due course.
"We ask everyone to respect the privacy of Noel and his family at this time and in the coming weeks."
McGrath has been one of hurling's brightest stars in recent years, and even at 24, has an incredibly decorated career, winning two All-Ireland minor titles, an u-21 All-Ireland, a senior All-Ireland in 2010, and has picked up two All-Star Awards, as well as being named Young Hurler of the Year in 2009.
