Clare Oscar Traynor boss Donie Garrihy is warning they can't allow themselves to be distracted by talks of back to back titles as they begin the defence of their crown.
Last season saw the Banner win the competition for just the second time in their history, with a home clash against Galway this weekend getting the new campaign underway.
2013 All Ireland winning hurler Colin Ryan has linked up with the squad this year, but last years winning captain Pat Purcell is understood to be considering his position.
Manager Donie Garrihy says they will take the campaign one step at a time.
Kickoff on Saturday evening at Frank Healy Park in Doora is at 5pm.