The Dublin hurlers have lost an inspirational leader in Stephen Hiney, according to Ryan O'Dwyer.

The 31-year-old former captain announced his inter-county retirement yesterday after 13 years in the sky blue jersey.

"We have known unofficially for a couple of weeks, but he texted us all this morning and it was only later it was announced," Dublin star O'Dwyer said in the Irish Times.

"He is a massive loss. Not only is he a loss as a player but his leadership alone was massive. Even when he was out with his cruciate he was still there, one of the first to training, chatting at every session and giving everyone a gee-up and I think that will be the biggest loss."

As a diabetic, Hiney overcame the odds to lead his county from the dark days to the high of winning a first Leinster SHC title in 52 years in 2013.

"Yeah there have been times if we did a warm up and came back in he was there taking blood sugar levels. If we go out and play a first half and come in at half-time and lads are there might be getting a rub, sorting a strapping or changing socks he is there pricking himself to get a blood sugar level," O'Dwyer continued.

"I suppose it just shows even though there was so much going against him he still stood up and was defiant and that's what made him who he is and not only is he a leader, I consider him a friend for life."

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