Cian Lynch named on Limerick bench for league opener

Two-time hurler of the year Cian Lynch has been named on the Limerick bench for Saturday's Allianz HL Division 1 opener against Cork at Páirc Uí Chaoimh.

A hamstring injury saw Lynch leave the field of play early on against Waterford in last April's Munster championship tie.

And while he did recover to play a small part in the All-Ireland semi-final against Galway, he watched on from the seats as Limerick subsequently completed a hat-trick of Liam MacCarthy titles.

Speaking to RTÉ Sport recently, Treaty manager John Kiely gave an upbeat assessment on Lynch's fitness.

"Cian is doing really well, has trained right throughout the block of work that we've done and his recovery is pretty much what I'd call complete at this stage.

"He's just, like everybody else, getting on with his work. So I'm very happy with his recovery thankfully."

And Lynch is now part of the squad that will face the Rebels.

Seven of the team that lined out in win over Kilkenny last July will start on Leeside.

Declan Hannon will captain the side at No 6.

Pat Ryan has named a strong side for his first taste of league action as Cork manager with Patrick Horgan named in the forward line.

Sean O'Donoghue will captain the Rebels, while Ciarán Joyce, Damien Cahalane, Robbie O'Flynn, Conor Lehane, and Patrick Collins are also named to start.

Watch Cork v Limerick live on RTÉ2 and RTÉ Player from 7.15pm Saturday and highlights of the weekend's action on Allianz League Sunday, RTÉ2, 9.30pm.

Listen to the RTÉ GAA Podcast on the RTÉ Radio Player, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.