Shane McGrath

RTÉ Hurling Analyst

Forget the golf, it's time for grand slam of hurling

The excitement, the passion and the emotions on show for a golf tournament was like nothing seen in a long time for the sport, now imagine you turned to one of the patrons there and said, "You know this is nothing compared to the Munster Hurling Championship".

Hurling • 18 Apr

Shane McGrath: 'What's right for one code is right for both'

Cork spectacle brings hurling promotion into focus

Shane McGrath is urging the GAA to treat hurling national finals the same as it does for football deciders.

Hurling • 09 Apr

'Will Tipp and Cork be going for this?
100% they will'

Tipp can deliver silverware if they prevent goal rush

A lot has happened in the world over the past 65 years, a lot has changed for good or bad but one thing has remained the same - Tipp and Cork are still rivals on the hurling pitch

Hurling • 02 Apr

'Galway have enjoyed the biggest change in fortunes over the course of the campaign'

Galway emerging from league on the biggest upward curve

What exactly are some teams looking to get from this final round of league action, Shane McGrath ponders.

Hurling • 21 Mar

'The TV ref would not be needed for every single call and should not be asked to intervene in every play'

It's time to embrace video refs in hurling

The effort and time being put in by everyone is just massive so why not use this technology to make sure everyone is getting the fairest shot at this?

Hurling • 12 Mar

Shane McGrath: 'Like a deaf dog, it's too hard to call'

Twists and turns still to come in the hurling league

With the Allianz Hurling League drawing to a climax, Shane McGrath gets out his crystal ball and looks at how things will wind up and how the leagues could take shape for next season, after promotion and relegation matters are settled.

Hurling • 05 Mar

'So here's to the Donegals, Carlows and Antrims of this world making even greater strides in 2025 and turning a few heads along the way'

Donegal and Carlow sowing seeds for hurling's future

The early-season exploits of the hurlers of Donegal and Carlow could have long-term benefits for the code in those counties, writes Shane McGrath.

Hurling • 25 Feb

Shane McGrath: 'The structure of the league has helped create excitement and high-quality games, coupled with the fact we had no pre-season league competitions to contend with'

Early league rounds delivered excitement and quality

Shane McGrath reflects on an entertaining opening three rounds of the league and offers reasons as to why the excitement and quality has been there for all to see.

Hurling • 11 Feb

'The days of moral victories are gone now for this Carlow group'

Carlow have the spirit, talent and drive to keep rising

The story of the weekend for me was in Dr Cullen Park, where Carlow defeated Waterford for the first time in their history. Tom Mullally is the perfect man to make them realise their full potential.

Hurling • 04 Feb

Shane McGrath: 'I'm expecting a huge home crowd at Páirc Uí Chaoimh and it will resemble the closest thing you will get to a championship game in January."

Cork & Limerick to deliver championship fare in January

Shane McGrath looks ahead to the big hurling game of the weekend where Limerick travel to Leeside with both managers looking to find out more about their respective panels.

Hurling • 28 Jan