Recovering Cats star Rice eager to win back place

For the rest of his days, Kilkenny hurler Michael Rice will carry several scars on his right hand, an ugly and permanent reminder of last year’s All-Ireland semi-final win over Tipperary that cost him his place in the All-Ireland final.

Last Sunday week against Clare, in Ennis, Rice made his first appearance for club or county since that fateful day last August. He played only the first 43 minutes in what turned out to be a narrow win for Kilkenny, before making way for Walter Walsh to the generous applause from supporters home and visiting alike. All knew how close Rice had come to having his career ended, all were happy to see him back on the field.

He hadn’t been his usual self but no matter — the hand was fine, and it felt good.