JJ Delaney says an injection of youth has given the Kilkenny hurlers fresh impetus.

A very successful influx of young talent into the Black & Amber squad during the league means competition for places in the Cats' starting XV is now as fierce as it's ever been. Veteran campaigner Delaney wouldn't have it any other way...

"The more competition that is there for places, the better the squad is going to perform," the defensive stalwart is quoted in The Kilkenny People.

"Training gets you ready for matches and if you're getting a handy run there then you're not prepared. This year, of all years, we're getting tested every night of the week in training.

"Everyone to a man knows they can make the starting XV. That's a massive thing to have in any squad as no one goes in giving their all without believing they can make the side. Everyone has a fair chance of starting.

"They're all gathering experience all the time. The league was good as they were able to get a lot of games under their belts - but championship hurling is what you want to play and it's the same for them.

"They want to be playing when it comes to the semi-final, so they'll be putting in a tremendous effort in the build-up to that game, along with everyone else." Tweet

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