The International Rules Series will return after a three-year hiatus in 2020.

The AFL and the GAA have signed up to two two-test series next year and in 2022. The first series will be played in Ireland next November with a return two-test series to be played in Australia two years later. The last series took place in Australia in 2017 when the hosts reclaimed the Cormac McAnallen Cup following tests in Adelaide and Perth.

The AFL has also confirmed the Australian squad will again conduct a training camp in New York before travelling to Ireland.

GAA director-general Tom Ryan said: "We are pleased to announce the return of the International Rules Series in 2020 and look forward to re-connecting with our friends and colleagues in the AFL, both on and off the field.

"The series offers our players the chance to wear the green jersey and represent Ireland and it also provides them with an opportunity to pit themselves against the best from another code while showcasing the best skills of Gaelic football.”

AFL general manager football operations Steve Hocking said players named in the 2020 Virgin Australia All-Australian team will be the first qualify.

“We want to take the best of the best to the two-Test series in Ireland next year and our All-Australian players will be the first players selected,” he said.

“The IRS tests allows players from both codes the only opportunity to represent their countries and have traditionally been great contests that have showcased their athleticism.

“We saw in 2017 two high standard matches that drew great attendances. I look forward to the rivalry continuing when the test series returns next year.”

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