The International Rules Series between Ireland and Australia is to be sponsored by CocaCola, it was announced yesterday. The president of the GAA, Joe McDonagh, yesterday predicted that the revitalised series would, in time, become a notable event on the international sporting calendar.

"Our players deserve the opportunity to represent their country and I have no doubt that these games between Ireland and Australia are going to become major international events," he said.

An Irish panel, managed by Colm O'Rourke, has begun training for the series in recent weeks, although the eventual squad of 25 will not be chosen until after the All-Ireland football final.

The games will be shown live on RTE on Sunday, October 11th and Sunday, October 18th, when the teams meet in Croke Park. The rules for this Compromise Series adhere to the regulations adopted for previous meetings. Games will be played using a gaelic football over four quarters of 20 minutes. The direct lift (of the ball) from the ground is permitted and the mark will also be in operation.