THE MAYO hurlers will be allowed to play their inter-county Christy Ring Cup group game against Derry in Castlebar, Mayo county board confirmed on Sunday.
Mayo were told that they would not be able to play the game at McHale Park, but the footballer's were still able to use the venue.
They were told to use the Ballina Stephenites venue instead.
The initial decision to move the game was based on the recommendation by head groundsman at the venue.
Hurling selector John Cunnane said it was 'a slap in the face' when speaking to RTE this month.
'It is a complete slap in the face to lads who are putting in a huge effort to play senior hurling for Mayo – every bit as big of an effort as the footballers, he said'
MacHale Park back open to Mayo hurlers ahead of crunch Derry clash: Mayo GAA has released a statement to confirm that the county's crucial Christy Ring Cup clash against Derry next Saturday, May 14th will be held at MacHale Park. https://t.co/DMwIRqInCP
— hoganstand.com (@hoganstandgaa) May 8, 2022
A u-turn has now been performed meaning that Mayo and Derry will play the pivotal Christy Ring game at the Castlebar venue next Saturday.
Mayo GAA released a statement on Sunday saying:
"The game against Derry was scheduled for James Stephen's Park in Ballina by Croke Park earlier this year due to the extensive resurfacing works carried out at Hastings Insurance MacHale Park.
"Mayo GAA can now confirm that emergency and recommended remedial works on the playing surface after the Mayo vs. Galway Connacht GAA championship match will be completed ahead of schedule to facilitate this crucial championship match for the Mayo hurlers.
"The recommended rest period after the Connacht GAA football championship match was five to six weeks but a redoubling of efforts from the ground staff at Hastings Insurance MacHale Park now means the pitch will be available for next weekend."
Croke Park was touted as another venue, but that suggestion was quickly rebuffed, but that has not not yet been made available for all teams at the time.
