Aidan O'Shea confirmed as Irish captain

MAYO star Aidan O’Shea has been confirmed as Ireland captain for the upcoming International Rules series against Australia.

It will be the Breaffy man's fourth time on the panel and he will be joined by county team-mates Brendan Harrison and Chris Barrett.

In all 14 counties are represented in the 21-strong panel with Mayo leading the contingent with four players and Kerry next with three.

There are no representative from the All-Ireland-winning Dublin team, with on-going club commitments, work and need for a rest cited as the reasons.

Team manager Joe Kernan said: "I'd like to congratulate all of the players who have made the panel and acknowledge not only their hard work and training but that of all of the players who trialed and trained with us since our preparations commenced.

"Everyone involved is enthused by the prospect of representing Ireland and we are fully aware of the challenge involved in trying to retain the Cormac McAnallen Cup won against Australia at Croke Park two years ago.

"We are looking forward to pitting ourselves against the best the AFL has to offer in the coming weeks."

The games take place next month and both Tests will be shown live on RTÉ television, with highlights broadcast in the evening.

The first game will take place on Sunday, 12 November at the Adelaide Oval at 5am Irish time.

The deciding match will take place the following Saturday night at the Domain Stadium in Perth in what will be the final game held in that venue. That game begins at 8.45am Irish time.