LIMERICK will be without their captain and top scorer Gary Kirby for next Sunday's National Hurling League Division One game against Clare at the Gaelic Grounds. He was injured playing for his club, Patrickswell, last Sunday.

Also out through injury is Mike Galligan, while Brian Tobin and John Foley, who played in the victory over Kilkenny, have been omitted. Corner back Declan Nash returns for the first time since the All-Ireland final. Indeed, Limerick will have the same defence that lined out in their defeat by Wexford.

Midfielder Houlihan, who missed the game against Kilkenny because of injury, also returns to the team. Ollie Moran will partner Houlihan at midfield.

Kilkenny have returned former All Star Pat O'Neill to their defence for Sunday's Division One clash with holders Galway. Of late, O'Neill has been employed as a forward, but for Sunday's Ballinasloe test he will fill his regular centre-back position.

The team shows two changes from the one beaten by Limerick in the last match. Ken O'Shea and Adrian Ronan replace Stephen Grehan and Charlie Carter.

Tipperary have made makes sweeping changes from the side which lost to Offaly at Nenagh in the first round for their game against Laois at Portlaoise on Sunday

Out go corner back Paul Delaney and midfielder Pat Maguire, while Michael Cleary and John Enright are missing with head and leg injuries respectively.

Michael Ryan is recalled in defence with Aidan Butler at midfield instead of Maguire. Tommy Dunne replaces Cleary and Aidan Flanagan comes in instead of Enright.