Kilkenny boss Lyng hands Mackessy competitive debut  

Lyng has named an experienced side, with Mackessy the only league debutant in black and amber.

Fionán Mackessy, then of Kerry, during the GAA Hurling All-Ireland Senior Championship Preliminary Quarter-Final match between Kerry and Wexford. Pic: Diarmuid Greene/Sportsfile

Kilkenny boss Derek Lyng has handed former Kerry hurler Fionán Mackessy a starting berth for the Cats' league opener against Clare on Sunday.

Mackessy has impressed in O'Loughlin Gaels colours since his transfer to the Kilkenny club, having moved to the county for work purposes, and he has been rewarded with a place at wing-back for the clash with the Allianz league and All-Ireland champions in Ennis.