Ref Cathal McAllister called up to championship roster

Cork referee Cathal McAllister has been included in the roster for this year’s All-Ireland SHC after being omitted last year.

McAllister’s return to top-level officiating coincides with the size of the hurling championship referees panel increasing from 12 to 14.

His inclusion means Cork now hold strongest representation in the leading group of hurling referees; Diarmuid Kirwan and Colm Lyons — the latter took charge of the recent league final — are again selected. Antrim’s Colum Cunning is listed for the first time.