Blow for Munster title hopes as Dunne pulls hamstring

MUNSTER’S hopes of retaining the men’s senior hockey Interprovincial Championship at Harlequins’ Park were dented by a training injury that yesterday ruled former international Alistair Dunne out of their squad.

Dunne was certain to be handed a major role in central midfield by Munster coach Stephen Jackson, but the bad luck with injuries that has ruined the experienced Dunne's season was extended when he pulled a hamstring during Munster's preparations.

Dunne played for Ireland in more than 60 internationals from 1993 and he came back after injury to help C of I in their Irish Senior Cup semi-final at Lisnagarvey last weekend. Now Munster must improvise in a situation where they have no room for error.