The reasons behind Kelly's omission from the All Star nominations remains a mystery but he demonstrated in front of 1000 spectators why he is one of the most complete forwards in the business. From either play or placed balls, the Deise man was in inspirational form, accumulating a fine total of 110 against a Leinster side containing 10 of Kilkenny's All Ireland-winning panel.

A more committed, betterbalanced Munster never looked in danger of losing a tie that, like the preceding football game between the provinces, lacked the intensity of championship hurling.

Still, the attendance was treated to the skills of some the country's best hurlers and to the craft and mastery of Kelly. While he stole the headlines, Tipperary's Declan Fanning and Conor O'Mahony also distinguished themselves in defence, while Cork's John Gardiner gave a sublime performance from half back.

Assisting Kelly in his show up front were Michael Fitzgerald and Lar Corbett and this comfortable victory completed a double on the day for Munster.

A goal from Leinster's Rory McCarthy in the 14th minute breathed life into the visitor's attack where James Young and Richie Power showed glimpses of good form. Young, Kevin Brady and Barry Lambert added on points but there was always a sense that Munster were in control of proceedings. James McGarry pulled off a wonderful save from John Gardiner penalty in the 29th minute but Kelly's expertise from frees allied to the marksmanship of Corbett, John Mullane and Mike Fitzgerald drew Munster level 0-10 to 1-7 at half-time.

Munster copper-fastened their superiority in the third quarter though going clear 0-17 to 1-9 mainly through Kelly's dazzling array of stickwork. And after impressive substitute Shane McGrath swung over a delightful effort from the right wing, Kelly stroked home a ground shot from the edge of the square to the net in the 52nd minute before being replaced.

Leinster moved Tommy Walsh into their attack but his influence was minimal against a superb Munster rearguard. Michael Rice did pick off a brace of good points but Munster finished strongly with Jonathon Clancy bringing his side's total to an impressive 1-21.