Ronan back in Rebel hurlers' thinking

A number of changes have been made to the Cork senior hurling squad for the forthcoming National League, the Evening Echo reports.

Five members of last year’s panel are no longer involved.

They are Mickey O’Connell, Paul Tierney, John Anderson, Michael Byrne and John Paul King.

Into the squad comes former All-Ireland medal winner Neil Ronan from Ballyhea, Peter Kelly from Erin’s Own, Ronan McGregor from Na Piarsaigh and Kevin Hartnett from Russell Rovers.

All the other members of last year’s panel have been retained.

The return of Ronan is significant.

He was an influential member of the ‘99 team and has impressed in recent trial games.

He has a keen eye for the posts and that was illustrated in those games. He offers a major option in attack.

Kelly, the Erin’s Own man, has also been very consistent in those challenge games against UL, UCC, Athenry and Clare and deserves his chance.

McGregor was a towering influence in Na Piarsaigh’s march to county title glory last year.

The inclusion of young Hartnett is also significant and a big boost for his club Russell Rovers.

The squad of 28 is now in full training for the opening NHL assignment against Limerick on February 20.