Players from 16 counties are included on the Underdogs panel.

The GAA is on course for a hike in Championship attendances, with three of the four provincial councils estimating increases on last year’s numbers.

Late points from Conor Mageean, Michael Turley and Aaron O’Prey were required by Down to drag them over the line in this Christy Ring Cup opener at Elverys MacHale Park, Castlebar on Saturday.