GAA
Limerick have been crowned winners in the past two editions of the Munster Hurling League, going on to win Munster and All-Ireland honours later in those seasons.
Limerick prepare for the 2023 season as the team to beat once more as the Shannonsiders seek to break a number of records. John Kiely’s men are three in a row All-Ireland champions after winning the last four Munster Championships on offer.
Prior to his appointment, no Limerick side had retained their title with Kilkenny and Cork the only teams to win four on the trot, something the Shannonsiders will be seeking this summer. Never before in their history have Limerick claimed five provincial titles on the spin with that also a possibility for the side in 2023.
But the action will start with the Co Op Superstores Munster Hurling Legaue in mid January as Limerick take on Cork and Kerry in the pre season competition. Limerick have won the previous two editions of the League before going on to claim All-Ireland honours later in the season.
And Limerick selector Donal O’Grady says the competition is a huge opportunity for the side to kick off their campaign with high quality games ahead of the National League.
“If we’re lucky enough to be in the final of the co-op it’s on the following week and then we’ve a two-week break and then we’re back into competitive action with the National Hurling League as well so you know with the season being split now, games are coming thick and fast so it’s great to get off early in the new year with two tough games.”
For many on the Limerick squad, last July’s win over Kilkenny was a fourth All-Ireland triumph with the core of the side remaining practically identical throughout their all-conquering run.
However, each year a couple have broke into the squad to provide competition for places with O’Grady highlighting the need to keep things fresh as they prepare for another assault on League and Championship honours.
“You always want to strengthen it, you always want to keep things fresh. I suppose we’ve been lucky with the lads with the age profile, they’re very young and very enthusiastic.
“And there’s a drive within the camp which, at this moment in time doesn’t set alarm bells off saying that we have to freshen things up but it’s nice to bring in a player or two. give them a taste of it and just see how they react.”
Limerick kick off their Munster Hurling League campaign against Cork on January 15th in Pairc Ui Rinn.
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