Shane Kingston to miss championship opener due to injury

OUT DUE TO INJURY: Cork hurler, and eir ambassador, Shane Kingston pictured at the launch of the eir GAA Hurling All-Ireland Senior Championship in Croke Park Stadium ahead of the 2024 season kick off. PIC: Ramsey Cardy/Sportsfile

Shane Kingston is out of Cork’s Munster senior hurling championship opener against Waterford with a hamstring injury.

The Douglas man suffered a tear in training and has been ruled out of the game in Walsh Park. He faces a race to be fit for the following weekend’s game against Clare in SuperValu Páirc Uí Chaoimh.

Speaking at the launch of Eir’s sponsorship of the All-Ireland SHC, Kingston described the grade of tear as: “Kind of a one and a half but it’s the tendon so it might be a little longer. I’m hoping three weeks or so.” As speculation grows that Declan Dalton is also a doubt for the Déise clash, Kingston admits injuries at this time of year have serious ramifications. “It’s mad. As soon as the league finishes, if you pick up any bit of a knock you’re under pressure, like.

“Unfortunately, I was in the same situation last year. I got through all the league, all of pre-season, first session before championship I pulled my hamstring and I’ve done it now again. It’s disappointing but you’d be hoping we’ll have a long season and have a long year then.”