JJ Kavanagh Junior B Hurling Championship Semi-Finals

The JJ Kavanagh Junior B Hurling Championship reaches semi-final stage on Sunday 9 August 2026, with both games throwing in at 11am. Junior B sits below Junior A in Kilkenny’s club hurling grading, giving clubs’ second-string or developing panels a championship of their own, and it is taken seriously by the clubs involved, several of whom have strong recent form at this level.

What to expect

James Stephens play Tullogher Rosbercon in one semi-final at Mullinavat, while St Patrick’s take on Fenians in the other at Tullaroan, both fixed for down for decision on the same Sunday morning. Games at this grade tend to be tight and score-heavy, with clubs using the competition to develop panel depth ahead of the following season. The winners of the two semi-finals move on to a county final, which Kilkenny GAA will schedule once both results are confirmed, likely a few weeks later in late August or September. As with the other junior grades, this is a straight knockout from here, so a single poor performance ends a team’s championship for the year.

Getting there

Mullinavat GAA grounds are just off the N9 south of Kilkenny city, with parking on site. Tullaroan is a village north-west of the city on the R694, and the GAA grounds are on the edge of the village with space to park nearby. Both venues are well used to hosting championship fixtures.

While you’re in Kilkenny

Mullinavat is close to the Brandon Hill and Mount Brandon walking routes, while Tullaroan has strong hurling heritage of its own as the home of Lory Meagher. There is more to see in Kilkenny and across Co. Kilkenny.

Good to know

• James Stephens v Tullogher Rosbercon, Sunday 9 August, 11am, Mullinavat
• St Patrick’s v Fenians, Sunday 9 August, 11am, Tullaroan
• Junior B grade, county championship semi-finals
• Winners progress to the county final
• Full fixtures and results at kilkennygaa.ie