Good day to all fans of hurling!

We are not even halfway through June, and there are only five inter-county championship games left after tomorrow.

The fast-paced hurling season has once again brought us a summer that seems to fly by too quickly to fully enjoy.

The recent Munster final captured the attention of the entire country. While Cork has no complaints, many felt that a replay would have been the most natural and fair outcome - a chance to showcase the game and generate additional funds that could benefit grassroots hurling.

However, the hurried nature of the season leaves no room for breathing, let alone replays, in a competition that serves as a cover-up for the GAA's shortcomings in hurling.

Just before a lackluster and poorly attended Leinster final last Sunday, Kildare emerged as one of the standout stories of the year.

Young, fast, and skillful, they were a delight to watch. Yet, they are back in action tomorrow, a mere six days later.

Will this exciting new team be featured on television? Unfortunately, no. The GAA's own GAA+ channel, which one would expect to showcase such teams, overlooks the Joe McDonagh Cup until the final.

While you can tune in to watch Laois versus Tipperary, don't expect a close contest. In a previous game, Tipperary scored 7-38 against Offaly, who now find themselves in a similar position to Laois after losing the final.

These experiences have not been beneficial for Offaly. Apart from Laois defeating Dublin once, the average losing margin in the other nine McDonagh Cup games involving finalists has been 17 points.

McDonagh Cup finalists quickly become McDonagh survivors a week later. The concept of the cup is commendable, but its execution has been lacking. No team has managed to break through.

Teams that emerge victorious need support to maintain their momentum. They should not be pushed back into competition just six days later.

Tomorrow, show your support for Kildare as they face Dublin in Newbridge and Laois as they take on Tipperary in Portlaoise. While you may not witness nail-biting encounters in either location, these teams have earned your backing.

Make the most of the moment, as the limited exposure of hurling by those who control the game, rather than protect it, is coming to an end.

Dónal Óg Cusack shared his thoughts on Morning Ireland.

Listen to the RTÉ GAA Podcast on the RTÉ Radio Player, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your preferred podcast platform.