Mullane and Ryan set the stage for Munster opener

The Munster Hurling Championship roars into life this weekend as Waterford travel to Ennis to face Clare — and few fixtures carry the same weight, expectation, and unpredictability. From a Waterford perspective, former Déise great John Mullane believes the opening clash is significant — but not necessarily decisive in the bigger picture.

Mullane, a five-time All-Star and one of Waterford’s most iconic figures, is taking a measured view of the championship landscape. While acknowledging the difficulty of the trip to Ennis, he insists Waterford’s season will not be defined by the result on Sunday.

“There’s no doubt it’s a massive game,” Mullane said, “but I don’t think it’s the be-all and end-all.”

A bigger picture beyond Ennis

Looking at the likely Munster contenders, Mullane expects familiar forces to rise.

“If Limerick brings their A game, they’ll be there. And I just have a feeling about Clare — if they have everyone fit, they’ll be very difficult to beat.”

That context makes the Ennis clash daunting. Still, Mullane points to recent history for encouragement. Waterford pushed Clare all the way at the same venue two years ago and were unlucky not to come away with a result

“It’ll probably take a similar performance again to get something out of it,” he noted.

However, Mullane believes Waterford’s championship fate will hinge more on clashes with Cork and Tipperary — games he sees as pivotal in the race for a top-three finish.

“I think it’ll come down to those games. We have a great opportunity at home against both Cork and Tipperary. That’s where it could be decided.”

For Mullane, the target is clear.

“From a supporter’s point of view, it’s about getting into the top three. That’s what Waterford haven’t been able to nail down the last few years.”

Injury concerns and selection puzzles

Waterford’s preparations have not been without setbacks. Mullane highlighted concerns around key players like Darragh Fives, Stephen Bennett, and Austin Gleeson, stressing how crucial their availability could be.

At the back, the absence of Conor Prunty leaves a significant void, forcing management into difficult decisions. Mullane sees versatility as both a strength and a challenge.

Mark Fitzgerald, described as a “Rolls-Royce of a player,” could be deployed in multiple roles — but Mullane feels his influence is best utilised further out the field rather than in the full-back line.

Options remain, though. Players like Iarlaith Daly, Jack Fagan, Tadhg de Búrca, and Calum Lyons offer flexibility, even if it requires reshuffling.

“There are still good options there, even with lads missing,” Mullane added.

Fresh faces and impact off the bench

One positive from the league campaign has been the emergence of younger players. Mullane singled out Sean Mackey as a potential impact option, praising his energy and scoring ability.

“You’re going to need 20 players on any given day in Munster. He’s definitely someone who can come in and make a difference.”

Depth, Mullane believes, could prove critical in what remains the most unforgiving provincial championship in the game.

Clare’s confidence is growing under the radar

From the Banner County perspective, former All-Ireland winner Colin Ryan sees a team quietly building momentum.

Ryan, part of Clare’s 2013 All-Ireland triumph, believes the Munster Championship remains “the jewel in the crown” — and expects another fiercely competitive campaign.

“It’s been phenomenal the last few years. Every game feels huge — Ennis, Thurles, Walsh Park, Páirc Uí Chaoimh — there’s nothing like it.”

Strength in depth for Clare

Clare enter the championship off the back of a solid league campaign, where Ryan feels they achieved their primary objective: building squad depth.

Players like Shane Meehan, Mark Rodgers, and Niall O’Farrell have stepped up, while the return of established stars such as Shane O’Donnell adds further firepower.

“I don’t think Clare had to hit top gear in the league,” Ryan explained. “But they’ve built strength, and that’s massive coming into Munster.”

Even injury concerns around key defenders like David McInerney and Adam Hogan are softened by the emergence of capable replacements.

“In previous years, those losses would have been huge. Now, there’s more cover — the worry is still there, but it’s less.”

A wary eye on Waterford

Despite Clare’s progress, Ryan is under no illusions about the threat posed by Waterford — whom he believes may be flying under the radar.

“There’s a feeling that Waterford are building something. They’re coming out the other side of a transition, and that can be dangerous.”

He pointed to Waterford’s evolving forward line, combining physical presence with mobility, as a key weapon.

“They’ve serious athleticism now. Big men who can win ball, but also take you on — that’s where the game is going.”

Where the game will be won

For Ryan, the battle lines are clear. Clare’s forwards, brimming with form and confidence, will test Waterford’s defensive resilience — while at the other end, the Banner must cope with a powerful inside line.

Waterford’s backs will have to go toe-to-toe with Clare’s forwards. And then Clare’s full-back line will have to deal with that physical threat inside.”

It sets up a fascinating tactical contest — one that could swing on small margins.

Two teams, one massive opportunity

Both Mullane and Ryan agree on one thing: this is a game to savour.

With managers Peter Queally and Brian Lohan instilling fierce loyalty and intensity in their squads, the clash promises not just quality, but passion and edge.

“It’s going to be a cracker,” Ryan said.

For Waterford, it’s a chance to lay down an early marker — but not a defining one. For Clare, it’s an opportunity to reinforce their growing credentials.