Hurling League Explainer: Why Division 1A is shaping up to be a real viper’s nest

Cian Lynch of Limerick lifts the cup after the Allianz Hurling League Final match between Kilkenny and Limerick at Páirc Ui Chaoimh in Cork. Photo by Eóin Noonan/Sportsfile

Right, convince me: why is this year’s Allianz Hurling League going to be any different to the last few forgettable runnings?

There is jeopardy, plain and simple. Five of the 12 counties currently in Division 1, at least three of them Liam MacCarthy Cup teams, will be effectively relegated based on their league standing at the close of play on St Patrick’s Day.