Kilkenny club rocked by loss of manager ahead of championship opener

Graigue Ballycallan will go into today's St Canices Credit Union Senior Hurling Championship Round 1 clash against Dicksboro without the services of their former manager Declan Browne.

The legendary Tipperary footballer replaced Eugene Cloonan in the manager's hotseat at the start of the year and on the face of it appeared to be doing a decent job as the Kilmanagh outfit claimed a total of seven points from ten as they finished in third spot during their league campaign.

Browne's last game in charge was last Saturday's victory over Erin's Own and whatever has happened in the meantime, he won't be on the sideline in Pairc Lachtain today after handing in his resignation.

Subsequent meetings have taken place in the club since the shock news a couple of days ago and it is understood that the management for todays game will be made up of Richie O'Neill, Eddie Brennan and James Ryall.

A clash which already had much intrigue is expected to draw a big attendance and will throw-in at 1.30pm on what is another busy day of championship fare.

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