No place for Whelahan

Offaly boss John McIntyre has named his side to face Kilkenny in next Sunday's Leinster SHC semi-final at Croke Park, but there is no place in the starting line-up for Faithful legend Brian Whelahan.

The former Hurler of the Year returned to training last week, after it was reported he had retired from the inter-county scene.

The Birr man has not played for the county since limping off against Wexford in last year's Leinster final.

Kevin Brady takes over in the heart of defence, flanked by Shinrone youngster Daniel Hoctor and Colm Cassidy.

Dylan Hayden makes his first championship start as he joins the all-Birr half-forward line.

Ger Oakley goes from midfield to full-back, while Brendan Murphy reverts from attack to partner Michael Cordial in midfield.

OFFALY (SHC v Kilkenny): B Mullins; B Teehan, G Oakley, D Franks; D Hoctor, K Brady, C Cassidy; M Cordial, B Murphy; G Hanniffy, R Hanniffy, D Hayden; B Carroll, J Brady, D Murray.