Donegal's Michael Murphy will captain Ireland this year in the 2013 International Rules Series.

Murphy captained Donegal to the 2012 All Ireland and has been entrusted with the role by Ireland manager Paul Earley. He was also part of the panel for the 2011 edition alongside inter-county team-mates Neil McGee and Karl Lacey (who was forced to withdraw).

Describing his appointment as an "honour", Murphy said:

“I have enjoyed immensely the experience of pulling on the Irish jersey in the past and I am especially looking forward to playing with the best footballers from our game against the visiting Australian team over the course of the two upcoming tests." 

Earley, who also revealed Ja Fallon as his new selector, 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.”

Earley's side take on Australia at Breffni Park in Cavan on October 19th and Croke Park on the 26th.

The Australian squad will be an all-indigenous team, an issue discussed by Australian Football Rules journalist Rohan Connolly on Off The Ball. They announced their squad in August and you can see the full 33 man list here.

©INPHO/James Crombie