Paul ‘Pillar’ Caffrey, the man who handed Diarmuid Connolly his Championship debut, has admitted the forward’s mid-summer recall was “bizarre, a circus, unreal, a surprise”.

They’re an odd couple, no doubt about that, but Diarmuid Connolly and Bernard Brogan have been tangled together in blue for a dozen years now.

Form is clearly temporary in hurling. If the bookmakers are to believed, the 100% 2019 Munster SHC record Tipperary bring to Limerick on Sunday is of no consequence and will be broken.

Limerick hurling boss John Kiely is focused on this weekend’s clash with Cork but he also acknowledges his side face a different challenge this year as All Ireland

Ex-Tipperary captain Shane McGrath senses Liam Sheedy’s team are driven by the negativity that followed their middling league campaign and disappointing 2018 Championship.

Dublin are planning this season without two-time TG4 All-Ireland senior medallist Laura McGinley, who confirmed she is travelling to the US on a J1 in the summer.

Westmeath forward Ger Egan feels “sorry for the referees” attempting to enforce the experimental rules.

New jersey, new training centre, younger squad. Kerry football is moving in a new direction, on and off the field, part of the three-year plan to stimulate success and close the gap on Jim Gavin’s Dublin.

Galway football captain Damien Comer has credited Paddy Tally with bringing greater directness to the county’s attacking play.

Hats off to Six Nations Rugby for having the foresight to schedule a down week in the 2018 Championship. It coincides with one of the most severe weather events in a generation. Simon Lewis used the pause to encapsulate the various whys, wows, wherefores, and what-nexts

All-Ireland camogie champions Cork will begin the defence of their title against Wexford.

New Offaly hurling manager Kevin Martin has admitted that the 2018 Championship will be particularly punishing on players.