Deane: Kilkenny still the team to beat

FORMER Cork star Joe Deane has laughed off suggestions that Kilkenny are a side in decline, insisting the Cats are still the team to beat.

Questions have been raised about Kilkenny’s credentials after their recent Allianz Hurling League final defeat to Dublin. Deane, a three-time All-Ireland winner with Cork has been shocked by the level of criticism directed at Brian Cody’s team.

“I think it’s ridiculous to be writing Kilkenny off,” he said.