National Hurling League

The National Hurling League (NHL; Irish: Sraith Iomána Náisiúnta) is an annual hurling competition between the county teams of Ireland. Contested by 34 teams (31 Irish county teams plus London, Warwickshire and Fingal — a sub-county division intended to increase the reach of hurling), it operates on a system of promotion and relegation between six different divisions, with Division 1A comprising the top six teams in the country. Sponsored by Allianz, it is therefore officially known as the Allianz National Hurling League.

The Gaelic Athletic Association organises the league, which begins in February and concludes in May, at which stage the league final is held. The prize for the winning Division 1A team is the Dr. Croke Cup. In some seasons, including 2012, the winner of Division 1B is allowed to compete in the knockout stages of the Division 1A title.

The Division 1 title has been won at least once by ten different counties, nine of which have won the title more than once. The all-time record-holders are Tipperary, who have won the competition 19 times. Kilkenny are the current champions.

Read more about National Hurling League:  History, Performance By County

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