Henderson advises ‘measured’ reforms

Kilkenny stalwart Pat Henderson has pleaded with the hurling review committee to adopt a measured approach in examining the game.

Henderson is part of the 10-person group charged with revolutionising the game, but the five-time All-Ireland winner insists hurling is not in need of “radical change”.

“Personally, I don’t see the need for major changes, and I wouldn’t like to see major changes,” said Henderson.

“We will see what comes out of the survey and the various committee meetings. You have to move forward. The game has to evolve like every other game and we don’t want to seehurling left behind, but it doesn’t need radical change in my view.”

In attempting to gauge public opinion, the committee has drawn up a 26-question survey, which is being launched at Croke Park this afternoon. The survey mentions 13-a-side games, two referees, increasing the number of steps from four to six, the introduction of the sin-bin, public clock and a separate hurling referees committee as potential changes.

“We were given a free hand with setting out the survey questions to try and take a wide range of views and see what is needed, if anything. Two referees, 13-a-side games, the clock — these are questions you hear people discussing from time to time and what the committee is trying to do is encompass the various suggestions that have been floating around and see what the consensus might be.

“We will also consult extensively with all interested parties, how else can you properly conduct a review into the game? Added to that, everyone on the committee will be expected to weigh in with their opinion.”

Henderson also favours ‘clustering’ clubs in bordering counties to facilitate more club fixtures, at youth and adult levels, in the developing counties.

The committee has already met twice to establish terms of reference and will deliver their first report this autumn, with a view to tabling motions to the 2015 Congress.

“We will have reports at various stages of our work and will meet regularly over the next three months.”

Meanwhile, Henderson described Michael Rice’s season-ending cruciate ligament injury as a “massive blow” to Bran Cody’s panel.

“He has had a torrid bloody time. He is just back from one injury and to pick up another, my heart really goes out to him. Michael Rice will be a tremendous loss. You can never force to lose a player of his calibre.”