LEINSTER HURLING CHAMPIONS Kilkenny will be without corner-back John Dalton as they launch the defence of their provincial crown on June 11.

The Carrickshock man was handed an eight-week suspension by the GAA’s Central Competitions Control Committee (CCCC) last night after he was found guilty of striking Dublin’s Conor McCormack during the Division 1 final last weekend.

The Kilkenny County Board have indicated that they will not appeal the decision which was taken by the CCCC following a review of the ugly scenes which developed as both sides left the pitch at half-time.

TV replays clearly showed Dalton striking the Dublin man with his hurl before appearing to kick his opponent as he lay on the ground.

The eight-week suspension – the maximum which could be handed down for a Category Three offence – means that Dalton will not be available for selection for the Leinster SHC semi-final against Antrim, Laois or Wexford on June 11.

However, Brian Cody will be able to call on forward Eoin Larkin who was dismissed for violent conduct during a separate incident in the first half of Sunday’s game.

Kilkenny have chosen not to appeal the four-week suspension which he was handed following his red card, which means that the ban will expire before June 11.