Derry include five debutants

New Derry manager Gabriel O'Kane has handed senior debuts to five players for Sunday's National Hurling League opener against Laois (Portlaoise, throw-in 2.30pm).

The Division 2A encounter will see Seamus Bradley, Stephen Henry, Davin McSorley, Oisin McCloskey and Gavin Kelly all make their competitive bows for the Oak Leafers.

The Derry defence will be spined by Michael Conway, last season's captain, at full-back and Banagher youngster Ryan McCloskey at centre-back.

Both Hinphey brothers are included with centre forward Kevin skippering the team.

Derry, last year's Nicky Rackard Cup champions, impressed during a run of challenge matches last month - beating Tyrone 5-22 to 0-8 last time out.

Ballinascreen free-taker Davin McSorley, who has been named at left half-forward, struck 1-6 against Tyrone and 1-9 the previous week in a win over Donegal.

DERRY (NHL v Laois) - M Kirkpatrick; S McCullagh, M Conway, S Bradley; S Henry, R McCloskey, M Craig; R Kennedy, L Hinphey; S McBride, K Hinphey (capt), D McSorley; O McCloskey, C Quinn, G Kelly.