Pádraig Walsh of Ireland in action against Ruaridh Anderson of Scotland during the 2023 Hurling Shinty International Game between Ireland and Scotland at Páirc Esler in Newry, Down.
The GAA is delighted to announce the Shinty/ Hurling International Exhibition match this October, which will see Ireland take on Scotland in a composite rules game.
This event will be held at Cusack Park in Ennis, Clare on Saturday October 26, promises a display of sporting prowess and rekindling the camaraderie between the two nations.
The Shinty/Hurling International Exhibition match has been a long-standing tradition, bringing together top talents from both Scotland and Ireland in a thrilling showcase of shinty and hurling skills.
The event is a collaboration between the GAA and the Camanachd Association, the governing body for Shinty.
The match returned last year after an unavoidable hiatus, due to COVID-19, the match marked a momentous occasion for players and fans alike, reigniting the spirit of friendly competition and sporting excellence. Ireland won the match last year by eight points in a thrilling affair in Newry’s Pairc Esler.
Uachtarán CLG, Jarlath Burns, said: “We are closer to Scotland than any other nation be it geographically, historically and culturally. As well as our beautiful teanga we share a passion for hurling and shinty in two games that share the same ancestor. This international allows some of our most skilful players have the opportunity to showcase their phenomenal skill and have the honour of representing their country as they do so. In this the 140th anniversary of the GAA and the centenary of the Ireland-Scotland international at the Tailteann Games, I am delighted to see us honour that tradition and maintain our links with Cumann Camanachd.”
Burton Morrison, President of the Camanachd Association, shared his anticipation:
"The Shinty/Hurling International match remains a highlight in the sporting calendar, and we are pleased to continue its legacy in this, the 100th anniversary of the very first International at the 1924 Tailteann Games. One hundred years on, this event continues to demonstrate the passion, skill, and heritage shared by Scotland and Ireland. We are eager to see the fierce but friendly competition return and celebrate the traditions that bind our nations."
Ronald Ross, National Development Manager, added: "This fixture is a perfect showcase of the dedication and talent that both shinty and hurling embody. As we focus on growing the game at all levels, the Shinty/Hurling International match highlights the unique connections between our sports, pushing players to reach new heights and strengthening the bonds between Scotland and Ireland."
Each organisation will select a 20-player squad to travel to Ennis in the coming weeks.
Scotland will be managed by Garry Reid and the Irish team will be jointly managed by Michael Kavanagh & Terence McNaughton, along with selector Kieran Kingston.
More information about the Shinty/Hurling International match, including team selections and event updates will be released in due course.
An official launch event for the game will take place Tuesday, October 15th in Croke Park and further information will be available on gaa.ie and on the GAA’s social media channels.
Ireland captain Neil McManus lifts the Mowi Quaich after his side's victory in the 2023 Hurling Shinty International Game between Ireland and Scotland at Páirc Esler in Newry, Down.