Kilkenny and Wexford set for championship venue deal

All-IRELAND champions Kilkenny could very well face Wexford on home territory in the game that seems certain to decide the destination of the 2004 Leinster hurling title.

Preliminary discussions have taken place with a view to the counties entering a home-and-away arrangement which would be willingly facilitated by the Leinster Council. Pending an outcome, the venue for the semi-final game has been left open.

With the Leinster executive having taken a decision to play fewer games in Croke Park next year because of the high costs involved, it’s clear that a full house in either Nowlan Park (30,000) or Wexford Park (25,000) would be an attractive proposition. It would also be guaranteed to produce the biggest gate of the competition.