Transfers change could benefit ‘weaker’ counties

TIER ONE hurling counties will be able to avail of the new transfer system approved by Congress if they can persuade Central Council that they should be designated as ‘weaker’ counties.

The new rule allows players to 'declare for the county of birth of a parent or play for the county of residence' as long as they are not competing in the All-Ireland Hurling Championship. The motion allows counties to field five such players and the hope is that it will provide a boost to tier two and three counties.

It may also prove useful to the likes of Laois especially, who are considered too weak for the top tier but too strong for the middle one.