The DJ Carey managed side were successful in arguing against their expulsion from the premier third level hurling Championship, following a meeting which took over five hours at Croke Park.

A decision was communicated to colleges around 1.15am, while the following statement was issued by email shortly after 2am.

"Following the decision of the Central Appeal's Committee to uphold IT Carlow's Appeal and overturn the decision to Award the Independent.ie Fitzgibbon Cup fixture between IT Carlow and Mary I (February 10th) to Mary I by Comhairle Ardoideachais (CA), the Independent.ie Fitzgibbon Cup Quarter-FInal fixtures which were scheduled for Thursday 19th February are now cancelled.

"Details of the revised remaining Independent.ie Fitzgibbon Cup Quarter-Final fixtures will be circulated ASAP."

IT Carlow had been deemed to have fielded a part-time student by CA on Monday, with the dispute focussing on Kilkennyman James Gannon who is pursuing a Graduate programme at IT Carlow with Glanbia.

Mary Immaculate College had argued that Gannon was doing a part-time course, a decision which CA ruled in agreement with, and the points for Mary I’s group stages meeting with IT Carlow were awarded to the Limerick college, who gained a place in the quarter-finals as a result.

It is understood that at least one other player who has featured for IT Carlow so far in the competition is also studying the same graduate programme, although his eligibility had not been pursued.

Mary I were due to face DIT this afternoon in the rescheduled quarter-finals, while Limerick IT and Waterford IT were also due to meet in Limerick.

Today’s quarter-final ties have now been postponed.

It is unclear at present if Comhairle Ardoideachais or Mary Immaculate College will use the next route available to them - the Disputes Resolution Authority (DRA).