CAC to rule on handball controversy

The Irish Handball Council has once again found itself embroiled in controversy, with a case in front of the GAA's Central Appeals Committee tonight, following an appeal from the Ulster Handball Council.

It is reported that Ulster are appealing the decision to schedule the All-Ireland 40X20 Senior Singles, Minor Singles and Ladies Senior Singles finals for O'Loughlin Gaels, Kilkenny.

The Ulster Handball Council have argued that staging the games in Kilkenny is in breach of a contract agreement made with new sponsors Dalkia last January, which stated that Kingscourt in Cavan would host the deciders.

An 11th hour decision was made last Friday to postpone the finals, in a bid to try and find a resolution to the issue.

Irish handball has been dogged by controversy in recent years with two cases taken to the High Court, including one by Meath player Tom Sheridan in 2004, where he successfully had a six-month suspension overturned.

IHC Promotions Administrator Niamh Egan expects a swift resolution to the case.

"We hope the appeal is dealt with promptly so we can get back to the real business of preparing for one of the most exciting Senior Singles finals of recent years," Egan stated.

The Irish Handball Council expect to announce the new date for the finals at their Senior Doubles final between Mayo and Cavan which takes place in Kingscourt tomorrow afternoon.