GAA
There are major Shake-ups for Kilkenny and Cork Ahead of their Allianz National Hurling League Clash.
Kilkenny has revamped its lineup, with O’Loughlin’s duo Mikey Butler and Huw Lawlor stepping in, and Huw Lawlor assuming captaincy in the absence of Paddy Deegan.
Darragh Corcoran has been relocated to the half-back line, displacing Richie Reid from that position. Additionally, Kevin Blanchfield will start from the bench, making way for Mikey Carey from Young Irelands, who will join Cian Kenny in the middle of the park.
The forward line remains consistent, with Conor Heary, Adrien Mullen, Eoin Cody, and Billy Ryan retaining their positions. They will be joined by Luke Hogan and John Donnelly. Mossy Keoghan and Harry Shine have been designated to the bench for the upcoming fixture.
Meanwhile, Cork has made five changes, including introducing the Downey brothers and Tim O’Mahony.
The clash, is set for Saturday night at Supervalu Pairc Ui Chaoimh with full live coverage on KCLR with thanks to Laharts.
The draw for the St. Canices Senior League Championship took place last night
Group A comprises Dicksboro, Tullaroan, Thomastown, Glenmore, Bennettsbridge, and James Stephens.
Meanwhile, Group B features Shamrocks, Graigue Ballycallan, O’Loughlins, Erins Own, Clara, and Mullinavat.
Now our attention turns to Carlow on Sunday.
The Barrowsiders are at home to Meath at 2pm.
Both sides are coming into the game with an opening round victory, however when speaking to KCLR Meath manager Seorise Bulfin acknowledge the serious threat Tom Mullallys men pose.
We’ll have live commentary with thanks to Ray Whelan Limited.
RUGBY
Changes are expected when Ireland head coach Andy Farrell names his team later for Sunday’s Six Nations Championship game against Italy in Dublin.
Captain Peter O’Mahony and Garry Ringrose are unlikely to be risked.
Finlay Bealham, James Ryan, Ryan Baird, Jack Conan and Stuart McCloskey are all in contention for a starting berth.
The Italians will be without back row forwards Sebastien Negri and Lorenzo Cannone (pr: Can-oh-nay).
The Under 20’s face their Italian counterparts at Musgrave Park in Cork this evening from 7.15.
SOCCER
The Republic of Ireland will learn today when they will face England in the upcoming Nations League campaign.
Fixture dates against our other opponents Greece and Finland will also be confirmed.
The Boys in Green have not faced England in a competitive game since 1991.
The FAI say they are close to appointing a new manager for the men’s senior team, but deny a contract has been offered or that the job has been turned down.
DARTS
Michael van Gerwen edged teenager Luke Littler by 6 legs to 5 in the final of the Premier League competition in Berlin.
Littler missed two darts at double 10 to win the contest.
