THE GAA AND AFL have today confirmed that Ireland will host Australia in a one-test 2015 International Rules series in Dublin on Saturday November 21.
The decision comes on the back of the success of last year’s one-test series in Perth, which saw Australia triumph.
It will mark only the second time that the International Rules has been played in November in Ireland with the second test of the 2006 series taking place on 5 November in Croke Park.
It is understood that the successful staging on 22 November, 2014 of last year’s clash was a determining factor in the GAA and AFL choosing a late November date on this occasion. The scheduling also helps the GAA as there will be less clashes with club championship games at that time of year.
Australia have once again announced that only All-Australian players will be eligible for selection as part of the tour party.
“It is extremely important that the Australian team give the best possible account of itself, as we did last year,” stated AFL Chief Executive Gillon McLachlan.
“The players who were part of that squad will be given the opportunity to play again, under the leadership of the coaching panel of Alastair Clarkson, Ross Lyon and Chris Scott.
“Those players who may not be able to join us post-season will only be replaced by someone who has earned All Australian selection through his AFL career as we remain determined to ensure the prestige and popularity of the International Rules Series between Australia and Ireland.”
The development has been welcomed by GAA figures as well.
“We are confident that the Irish public will turn out in large numbers to see the best of the two codes compete for the Cormac McAnallen Cup and we welcome Australia’s commitment to the series and their decision to once again select All Australian players for the game,” remarked President Aogán Ó Fearghail.
“The success of last year’s one-test series has prompted us to continue with this format for 2015 with a view to re-igniting interest in the cross-code game in Ireland,” stated Director-General Paraic Duffy.
