DJ Carey to anchor Cats defence

Kilkenny boss Brian Cody has again named DJ Carey at the heart of the Cats' defence for the NHL clash with Clare at Nowlan Park on Sunday.

Carey filled the role in recent weeks against Tipperary and Laois, although he is deputising for Peter Barry, who lines out with James Stephens in today's All-Ireland club hurling final against Athenry.

Cody has made three changes from the side that beat Laois last weekend.

Seán Dowling, Eddie Brennan and James Fitzpatrick come in for John Maher, Aidan Fogarty and Willie O'Dwyer.

Henry Shefflin is rested, having failed to recover from a groin injury.

KILKENNY (SH v Clare): J McGarry; J Ryall, N Hickey, T Walsh; M Kavanagh, DJ Carey, JJ Delaney; B Barry, S Dowling; M Comerford, D Lyng, E Brennan; J Fitzpatrick, J Hoyne, J Coogan.