Liam Rushe is an inspirational leader: Ger Cunningham

Dublin hurling manager Ger Cunningham knows his men face the best in the business this Saturday but is keenly looking forward to the challenge as the Dubs face Tipp in Croke Park (5.0) in their opening NHL Division 1A clash.

“We’re playing the All-Ireland champions in Croke Park, in their first match since winning the All-Ireland title. We know the challenge facing us but it’s one we’re really looking forward to.

“Nobody is giving us a chance against the champions but they guys that have come in have done well," says Ger reflecting on Dublin's early season form in the Walsh Cup.

The Dubs boss has confirmed that Liam Rushe will remain as team captain for the year ahead.

“He’s been a good captain for us for the last couple of years – our inspirational leader on and off the pitch.

“It’s a continuation from last year – we needed some continuity really and he’s a stand-out man within the group.”

Some new faces are likely to make their league debut in Croker on Saturday night as Dublin plan without their eight Cuala players - Cian O'Callaghan, Paul Schutte, Seán Moran, Oisín Gough, Darragh O’Connell, Jake Malone, Mark Schutte and David Treacy who are preparing for their AIB All-Ireland Club SHC semi-final against Derry's Slaughtneil on February 25.

Dublin also have a number of injuries currently - Eamonn Dillon, Cian Boland, Chris Bennett and Daire Gray.