Tipperary have named a much-changed side for their Allianz National Hurling League opener against Clare in Ennis on Sunday. 

There is no place for the likes of John McGrath, Brendan Maher and John ‘Bubbles’ O’Dwyer, and James Barry,  as Michael Ryan elects to experiment ahead of what is sure to be a hectic campaign. 

Ryan has opted for some new blood with the likes of Ger Browne, Tom Fox and Conor Kenny  all handed starts for the condensed and extremely competitive campaign ahead as well as the upcoming challenge of what is sure to be a cut-throat Munster round-robin. 

 Paul Maher of Moyne Templetuohy is selected in goal. The full-back line features Alan Flynn (Kildangan), Tomas Hamill (Moyne Templetuohy) and Donagh Maher (Burgess).  

The half-backs are Seamus Kennedy (St. Mary’s), Padraic Maher (Thurles Sarsfields), who captains the side and Tom Fox Éire Og Annacarthy. 

There is a surprise in midfield, where the returning Cathal Barratt of Holycross partners Ronan Maher.

Up front, Jason Ford is handed a new role  at full-forward, and Ger Browne of Knockavilla Donaskeigh and Patrick ‘Bonnar’ Maher man the corners. Noel McGrath is the only survivor from the wing-forward division that faced Galway in the All-Ireland semi-final. He is flanked by Conor Kenny of Borris-Ileigh and Sean Curran of Mullinahone. 

The Tipperary Senior Hurling team to face Clare is as follows:

Tipperary manager Michael Ryan has named his side to face Clare in Cusack Park, Ennis on Sunday next, January 28th pic.twitter.com/gkQ0pgAHJK

— Tipperary GAA (@TipperaryGAA) January 26, 2018

Subs: Daragh Mooney, James Barry, Michael Breen, Justin Cahill, Brendan Maher, Paul Maher, Dan McCormack, John McGrath, Sean O’Brien, Joe O’Dwyer, Paul Shanahan

— Tipperary GAA (@TipperaryGAA) January 26, 2018