Shefflin takes first step back

FORMER Hurler of the Year Henry Shefflin scored two points in his first competitive game since September’s All-Ireland SHC final defeat to Tipperary.

Shefflin, who has battled back from a cruciate knee injury, was introduced two minutes into the second-half of Ballyhale Shamrocks’ senior hurling league defeat of Dunnamaggin in Hugginstown.

Despite his near eight month absence, Shefflin looked fit and strong and showed a good touch and landed a point from play and from a free.

Shefflin declined to speak about his return afterwards but club officials were delighted at his comeback.

Shamrocks manager, Michel Fennelly senior said: “It was good for him to get that first game over and done with.

“We didn’t put any pressure on him to play. It was his own decision.

“He looked well, but then, he has worked hard to get back.”

Shefflin returned to training late last month and is not gearing himself for a return to county colours when Kilkenny open their Leinster championship defence on June 11.