Bonnar’s future is uncertain

The Nenagh Guardian understands a final decision on whether Bonnar will be in charge for a second year will be made over the next week or so, but is very much fifty-fifty as to whether he will be at the helm in 2023.

By Shane Brophy

Colm Bonnar’s future as Tipperary senior hurling manager is uncertain as a review process over his first year in charge comes to a head this week.

The Nenagh Guardian understands a final decision on whether Bonnar will be in charge for a second year will be made over the next week or so, but is very much fifty-fifty as to whether he will be at the helm in 2023.

There has been growing speculation that Bonnar’s position is in jeopardy, particularly following rumours of player discontent after their poor championship campaign where they lost all four games in Munster.

It has been confirmed that no players meeting has taken place, despite speculation to the contrary in the last week, however, concerns have been raised by some key players with Bonnar and the county board over the manner of the preparation of the squad this year and its part in Tipperary’s poor performances.

Colm Bonnar was given a three-year term when he was appointed last year, but as with all management teams in the county, comes with an annual review.

If he does stay on, there will be changes to the management team after it was confirmed that coach Tommy Dunne, and selector Paul Curran have stepped away from the set-up.

When Tommy Dunne was retained from the previous regime under Liam Sheedy, it was initially on a one-year basis to provide continuity, and has decided to carry through on his intention.

It has also been confirmed that the Toomevara clubman lost his appeal to the GAA’s Disputes Resolution Authority (DRA) over his twelve week suspension accruing from the Munster Championship clash with Waterford in April.

Paul Curran has also opted not to stay on, after previously being a selector with Eamon O’Shea in 2015 after he retired as a player earlier in the campaign.