PREVIEW: Tipp hurlers hopeful of injured players' return ahead of crucial clash in Waterford

Tipperary’s status in Division 1A of the Allianz National Hurling League is still far from certain as Liam Cahill and his charges prepare to travel to Walsh Park on Sunday to face Waterford in what could be a big game in deciding who will join Offaly in dropping through the trapdoor this year.

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After Tipperary had notched two early wins against Galway and Offaly in the first two rounds last month, the feeling was the worry of relegation would evaporate quickly and allow the team to prepare in earnest for the championship without any fear of repercussions.

However, the two subsequent losses to Cork and, particularly, against Limerick has put Tipperary back into the relegation equation.

With two games to go, Tipperary are locked on four points with Galway, Waterford, and Kilkenny, with two of those teams representing Tipperary’s final two opponents.

Therefore, a win on Sunday would alleviate any worries about this, and Liam Cahill will be eager to highlight it to the group.

It wouldn’t be a complete disaster to drop down, but it could stifle confidence in a group that has built so much in reserve over the last year.

With Waterford in mind this Sunday, available personnel will be interesting. Ronan Maher was an unused substitute in the loss to Limerick the last day out, and he will be in the reckoning for a starting berth, while Jason Forde will be available again after serving his one-match suspension for the red card picked up in the Cork league clash last month.

Robert Doyle was close to being available for the Limerick game, and if there have been no subsequent setbacks, he should add to the defence. Brian McGrath may also come into the reckoning, too, as he was close to a return for Limerick also.

Waterford are also fighting for their survival and will be desperate to avoid an immediate drop back down to Division 1B after being promoted last year. The game takes place on Sunday, March 11, in Walsh Park at 3.15pm.

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