THERE was a time in the Galway hurling championship when we were all watching out for the ‘Group of Death’ after the draws were made.

But those days are gone given that the various title races present the opportunity of three teams emerging from each group of four in Senior, Senior B and Intermediate in 2023.

Following a mandate from Croke Park, counties are restricted to a maximum of 16 teams competing at senior and intermediate level which has led to a radical overhaul of the domestic scene in Galway for this year.

Unfortunately, there is an unbalanced look to the three main county championships. There are 16 teams in Senior and Intermediate, but only eight in Senior B which is a stand-alone competition with the winners being promoted to Senior for the following year.

How long that is sustainable remains to be seen and it will be no great surprise if down the road, Galway introduces a championship structure which would see 12 clubs in each title race, with Senior B being rebranded as Premier Intermediate. Under the present system, the winners of Senior B are not allowed to represent Galway in the All-Ireland Club intermediate championship.

What delights has the Senior A draw thrown up. On paper, Group 2 looks the toughest with Portumna, Turloughmore, Gort and six-in-a-row seeking St Thomas’ chasing three of the qualifying places.

For more, read this week’s Connacht Tribune.

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