MICHAEL MURPHY WILL captain Ireland in the upcoming International Rules tests against Australia.

Manager Paul Earley has chosen Murphy, Donegal’s All-Ireland winning captain in 2012, to lead Ireland as they defend the Cormac McAnallen Cup.

“It is a massive honour to be involved with the Irish team, never mind accepting the accolade to lead my country as team captain,” Murphy said.

The series will be the 24-year-old’s third following his involvement in the 2010 and 2011 tests.

“We have every confidence that he will bring his renowned leadership skills to bear on the Irish team in much the same way that he has on the Donegal set up in recent years,” Earley said.

It is fitting that an Ulster man will lead the Irish challenge as the series begins in that province and in addition to his very obvious leadership qualities we are also looking forward to seeing him leading by example in his attacking play.

The first test takes place in Breffni Park, Cavan, on 19 October with the deciding test a week later in Croke Park on 26 October.

Australia will be represented this year by an Indigenous All-Star team, managed by former Sydney Swans player Michael O’Loughlin.

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