Darragh O'Donovan sidelined for two games with calf injury

Limerick have been dealt a major blow as Darragh O'Donovan has been ruled out for their opening Munster SHC games against Clare and Tipperary.

The All-Star midfielder suffered a calf injury in training last month, two days before he was due to start against Tipp in the league.

While it was hoped he would recover in time for their 21 April opener in Ennis, the strain has been slow to heal.

"Darragh O'Donovan's injury is very slow in responding and he'll be ruled out for the first two games. He won't be available," said Treaty manager John Kiely at the launch of the 'Win a Home in Adare' fundraiser.

"It's a calf injury. We just want to make sure he gets back fully so we're working hard on it, so is he, but for the moment, he won't be available for the first two games."

His fellow All-Stars Dan Morrissey and Kyle Hayes are expected to be available for selection, while defenders Mike Casey and Fergal O’Connor have returned to training after fulfilling 10-day concussion recovery periods.

"We're hoping that everybody else will be available, fingers crossed, come the 21st," Kiely added. "But we've a bit more work to do so you never know from night to night when you're going to lose somebody."

Limerick have yet to train at their Gaelic Grounds home this year as the pitch remains in the latter stages of remedial works.

Amid heavy rainfall and a forecast for more over the coming week, it’s unclear how much preparation time the All-Ireland champions will get there before welcoming Tipp in three weeks.

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