Galway want IHC selection consistency

GALWAY have been forced to field a completely new team for tonight’s All-Ireland IHC semi-final clash with Cork in Thurles (6.45pm).

As defending champions following a thrilling victory over Tipperary in last year’s final, the Tribesmen are unable to call on any of that squad. They are also handicapped by the fact they cannot call on any player who plays in their county SHC. Unlike in Cork were junior and intermediate club players who play with the division in the senior championship are eligible for their county team, Galway don’t have that kind of championship structure.

Galway manager Michael Linehan said it’s an anomaly that has to be corrected. “It’s not a level playing field as far as we are concerned, and what is another huge disadvantage for us is the fact that this is our first outing in defence of our title, while Cork have had two championship matches.