Kilkenny boss Brian Cody will be sweating on the results of a scan on Richie Power's damaged knee after the two-time All Star was stretchered off in the closing stages of Carrickshock's league victory over James Stephens on Saturday night.
The 26-year-old, who was reported to be in considerable distress as he was removed from the pitch in Thomastown, is almost certain to miss next Sunday's Allianz Hurling League final against Cork in Thurles but the long-term prognosis could be far worse if knee ligament damage is confirmed.
Power's injury is the latest setback to befall the All-Ireland champions after another of their forwards, Aidan Fogarty, suffered a broken left wrist in training last week.