UNDERDOGS! Pundits' predictions makes grim reading for Tipp ahead of semi-final!

Kilkenny have received overwhelming support from national pundits ahead of their All-Ireland Hurling Championship semi-final clash with Tipperary in the build up to Sunday's game.

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Despite Tipperary’s improving form and strong performances in recent weeks, the majority of analysts believe Kilkenny will prove too strong at Croke Park.

Out of 19 pundits surveyed, 17 are predicting a Kilkenny win. Just two are backing Tipperary to reach the final.

Those tipping Kilkenny include former players, managers, and respected analysts such as James Skehill, Paul Murphy, Cyril Farrell, Brian Carroll, Michael Verney, Colm Parkinson, and Anthony Daly. Their reasoning largely centres on Kilkenny’s experience, physical edge, and proven record in Croke Park in recent years.

Many see Kilkenny’s defensive structure and leadership down the spine of the team as decisive factors. Others point to the consistency they have shown in the Leinster Championship, even if their performances have not always been spectacular.

Tipperary, meanwhile, are only being backed by Will O’Callaghan (Off the Ball) and Cork great Donal Óg Cusack. Both see signs that Liam Cahill’s side are building momentum at the right time. 

However, most pundits feel Tipperary’s younger players remain untested at this level, and that Kilkenny’s experience and physicality will carry them through.

While the media expectation is firmly in Kilkenny’s favour, many see it as a game that will go down to the wire.

Kilkenny to win predicted by:

James Skehill (Galway), Paul Murphy (Kilkenny), Colm Parkinson (Smaller Fish Podcast), Brian Carroll (Offaly), Cyril Farrell (Galway), Dermot Crowe (Irish Indo), Michael Verney (Irish Indo), Donal Óg Cusack (Cork), Jamie Wall (Cork), Fintan O'Toole (The 42), Declan Bogue (The 42), Mark Landers (Cork), Anthony Daly (Clare), TJ Ryan (Limerick),  Ger Cunningham (Cork), Derek McGrath (Waterford), John McIntyre (Tipperary), Jamesie O'Connor (Clare).

Tipperary to win predicted by:

Will O'Callaghan (Off the Ball), Donal Óg Cusack (Cork)

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