Shefflin sits out Cats' mauling of Offaly

Henry Shefflin's long-awaited return from injury was postponed last night after he failed to line out for Kilkenny in their challenge match against Offaly.

Shefflin was expected to be introduced as a substitute during the Clara clash, but Brian Cody decided not to risk the eight-time All-Ireland winner who has been out for seven months since undergoing a shoulder operation.

The 33-year-old forward had a successful comeback run for his club Ballyhale Shamrocks last week, coming on as a second half substitute and scoring two points in their 5-18 to 2-8 victory over Dunamaggin.

Without Shefflin and a number of their injured stars, including Michael Fennelly, Richie Power and Michael Rice, the Cats still coasted to a 6-26 to 1-15 win over Offaly.

Last night's game saw defender John Tennyson put his injury troubles behind him as he made his first appearance in Kilkenny colours since the 2010 All-Ireland final loss to Tipperary.

Goals from Thomas Breen (2) and TJ Reid gave the reigning All-Ireland champions a 3-13 to 0-6 half-time lead. Offaly leaked three more after the break as substitutes Joe Brennan (2) and Walter Walsh also found the net.

Kilkenny's 2012 Championship campaign does not get underway until a Leinster semi-final against either Dublin or Laois in Portlaoise on Saturday, June 23.