Experienced GAA official Brian Gavin will referee the All-Ireland SHC semi-final between Kilkenny and Waterford at the weekend, but a proposed ban for comments towards an official may rule him out when it comes to the All-Ireland final in September.
The Irish Examiner reports today that a one-month ban has been proposed for Gavin by the Offaly County Board Competitions Control Committee – following an incident at the Offaly JFC quarter-final between Kilclonfert and Clara late last month.
Gavin, who is chairman of Clara GAA, was reported by referee Pauric Pierce for comments he made during the match. Kilclonfert won the match and advanced to the semi-final.
The Clara man has not accepted the ban and intends to defend himself against the charge at a full hearing in front of the Hearings Committee.
Gavin is allowed to officiate in Croke Park on Sunday, as he is eligible to continue as a match official until a verdict is reached in relation to his appeal.
But should the verdict not go in his favour, he will be out of contention for the All-Ireland final, which is scheduled to take place on Sunday September 6.