Michael Fennelly: Henry Shefflin return too risky

Michael Fennelly easily accepted Henry Shefflin’s decision to retire from inter-county hurling as a return to the fold for a 17th season would have been "high risk".

Fennelly is delighted his Ballyhale club-mate’s full focus will be on Shamrocks for the remainder of his playing career. But, while he was disappointed to have lost him from the Kilkenny set-up, he understands the decision to step away in light of the 36-year-old’s injury history and the possibility of not starting games this summer.

“It’s a pity. Without a doubt, he could still do it and it would have been great to have him in the dressing room and he’s a great man to come on from the line.