John Mullane's Waterford future is in doubt after the All-Star decided to take an indefinite break from inter-county hurling.
While it is unclear why Mullane has decided to take a break, it is understood he will not be available for the next six weeks, although no timeframe has been given for his absence.
The 30-year-old De La Salle clubman featured in just two Allianz Hurling League games in 2011 because of his wedding, honeymoon and club commitments and he played no part in the Deise's Waterford Crystal Cup quarter-final win over UCC on Sunday.
The Waterford County Board have yet to confirm the news of Mullane's break, while the player himself is remaining quiet over his decision.
Just last week Mullane was overlooked for Waterford captain as Michael Walsh was appointed by manager Michael Ryan.