Fitzpatrick and Reid back for Cats

Kilkenny welcome back James ‘Cha’ Fitzpatrick and T.J. Reid from the All Ireland winning Ballyhale Shamrocks side in time for this weekend's clash with Galway.

T.J. Reid will captain the side on Sunday. Martin Comerford also makes a return after his honeymoon while Michael Kavanagh, who has rejoined the panel having helped his club St Lactains win the All Ireland Intermediate Club title, is named in the substitutes.

Niall Walsh of Slieverue, a member of the 2008 All Ireland winning under 21 side makes his first league start for Kilkenny.

Henry Shefflin will rejoin the panel later as he is excused for a few weeks’ rest.

Currently on the injured list are J.J. Delaney (shoulder), Michael Fennelly (hamstring), Richie Hogan (hand) and Eddie Brennan.

KILKENNY v Galway: P.J. Ryan, Tommy Walsh, Brian Hogan, John Dalton, Paddy Hogan, Jackie Tyrrell, John Tennyson, Niall Walsh, James ‘Cha’ Fitzpatrick, John Mulhall, Michael Rice, Martin Comerford, T.J. Reid, Richard Power, Aidan Fogarty.