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From an Australian perspective, the upcoming International Rules series against Ireland needs some serious star power to ensure it does not lose further traction amongst AFL fans.
At its peak in the early 2000s, the International Rules series was able to offer almost full strength Australian teams with stars such James Hird, Nathan Buckley, Andrew McLeod lining up.
The most recent series in 2008 held in Australia lacked the better players in the AFL.
There was no Ablett, Reiwoldt, Judd or Buddy Franklin. Brent Harvey led the charge in a series that saw Ireland win both games played under watered down rules on tackling for the first time.
Harvey had too few star players to help him.
For Australia to be competitive at International Rules, we need the better ball handlers of the likes of midfielders Ablett, Bartel, Hayes, Judd, Cooney and Swan, through to the clever small forwards of the ilk of Rioli, Le Cras, Didak, S Johnson and Varcoe.
Throw in a few talls for a spine, perhaps Franklin, Reiwoldt, Sandilands, Tippett or Hille, and you have the makings of a top team with star power to attract interest.
For extra zip and young talent I’d add Jurrah, S Hill, Morabito, Scully, L Jetta, and Swallow. Malthouse is set to coach again.
The first test will be at Limerick on 23 October, 2010, followed by the second test at Croke Park a week later.
Who’s in your ultimate team? Pick the best team and compete with other fans for daily prizes on Draftstars. For the best odds on the game try out Aussie bookmaker PlayUp. Think. Is this a bet you really want to place? Set a deposit limit.