GAA:Dublin hurling captain Stephen Hiney will miss the rest of the season after rupturing his anterior cruciate ligament while Tipperary captain Eoin Kelly also faces a spell on the sidelines.
The injury occurred in the second half of the Allianz Hurling League Division One win over Wexford at Wexford Park – a result which moved the Dubs to the top of the standings.
"Stephen (27) is devastated by the news but he is a strong character and will get every support in his recovery,” said Dublin selector Ciarán Hetherton. “He has been an inspirational captain and player and his position will not be easily filled."
The news is a blow to manager Anthony Daly, who also has the likes of David Treacy, Shane Stapleton and Alan McCrabbe on the injury list.
The exact timeframe for Hiney’s recovery is unknown as yet but the Ballyboden St Enda's star is expected to be out for at least six months.
Kelly faces a four-week lay-off after sustaining a broken finger in Sunday’s league win against Offaly in Nenagh.
Kelly, who will be on official duty to the White House for this week’s St Patrick’s Day celebrations, is set to miss games against Cork and Galway.
The 29-year-old could return for the final Division One game against Wexford on April 17th.