TOMORROW’S O’BYRNE CUP clash between Westmeath and Carlow will no longer go ahead.

“The O Byrne Cup game — Westmeath v Carlow — scheduled for Lakepoint Park Mullingar tomorrow (2pm) – will not now take place,” read a statement from Leinster GAA today.

The42 understands that Carlow are unable to field a team, for what effectively would have been a dead rubber.

While the cause is unknown, many counties around the country are struggling with Covid-19 issues and injuries as preparations for the 2022 season ramp up.

Carlow and Westmeath were joined in Group C by Kildare, who advance to the semi-final stage as winners after two comprehensive victories.

The Lilywites sealed their last-four spot with an 18-point win over the Barrowsiders in Netwatch Cullen Park last night, securing their progression in the competition irrespective of whether the Carlow-Westmeath game was played or not.

Dublin, Louth, Offaly and Longford are in Group A, with Meath, Laois, Wicklow and Wexford making up Group B.

- Additional reporting by Gavin Cooney.