Rebel hurlers’ refusal to play Cats would not be fatal

GAA chiefs last night emphasised that Cork will not be kicked out of the National Leagues if their hurlers fail to fulfil their NHL opener against Kilkenny on Sunday.

Croke Park bosses dismissed suggestions that the Rebels would be booted out of both competitions if the county failed to contest their second successive weekend of league action.

Officials yesterday released a statement saying that counties may postpone one game in both the football and hurling leagues before the possibility of elimination occurs.