The weekend decision by the GAA's annual Congress to allow weaker hurling counties "import" five players from stronger counties has been given a resounding thumbs down by Mayo.

Although Christy Ring Cup contenders Mayo are now entitled to bring in five outside players, manager Frank Browne has said they will not be exercising the option.

"How could I go to five players on my panel and tell them they are being left off because we are bringing in five lads from Galway? I couldn't, and I won't," said Browne yesterday.

"I have discussed the rule change with my selectors Martin Brennan and Mark Deely and we have decided we will not be availing of the rule."

The rule allows players from counties who compete in the Liam MacCarthy Cup to declare for another county if the second county is competing in the Christy Ring or Nicky Rackard Cups. The only stipulations are that they must be either living in the second county, or at least one of their parents must hail from that county.