Fergal Hartley, the former Waterford captain who has agreed to return to the Déise set-up, has tipped Cork to retain their All-Ireland title this year.
However, the Ballygunner club man also has his heart set on Waterford opening the defence of their Munster title with a win over the Rebels.
Hartley announced his return to the Decies' camp following talks with manager Justin McCarthy.
Of the All-Ireland champions, he said: "They have almost frightening talent in their team and they set the standards for everyone else wanting to win the All-Ireland."
Waterford take on Cork in the Munster semi-final at Semple Stadium on May 22. Hartley said it will be "some test" to beat the Rebels again.