A former Kilkenny senior hurler "came within an inch of his death" after he was seriously assaulted during a row outside a Tipperary nightclub, a court heard.
Mr P.J. Delaney (27), from Johnstown, Co Kilkenny, received serious head injuries and could not return to full-time work for nine months after the alleged incident outside Hayes's Hotel, Thurles, on September 19th, 1999.
Four other men were seriously assaulted during the row on the same night.
Mr Michael McCarthy (23), from Galboola, Littleton, Co Tipperary, has denied assault causing serious harm to Mr Delaney and committing violent disorder.
Mr John O'Donoghue (27), from Beechwood Lawns, Thurles, has denied committing violent disorder.
Thirteen witnesses gave evidence at Nenagh Circuit Court on the first day of the trial before Judge Yvonne Moran and a jury of six men and six women.
Mr Delaney, who played hurling for Kilkenny, came on as a substitute in the All-Ireland senior hurling final a week before the alleged incident. He has not played hurling since.
The trial continues today.