Irish unveil European Nations
squad

Ireland have revealed their squad for the forthcoming Rugby League European Nations Cup and the 20 man squad will include four players from the domestic Rugby League Ireland competition. The squad includes eight players with Super League experience and ten players from last season's squad in the inaugural competition. Barrie McDermott is unavailable to play in this Sunday's opening fixture against Wales at Aberavon because of club commitments with Leeds Rhinos whilst Francis Cummins, Dean Gaskell, Terry O'Connor, James King, Tim Jonkers and Paul Handforth have all been ruled out through injury. Commenting on the squad Head Coach Daryl Powell said, "It is unfortunate for the players who have missed out but we are confident with the players that we have that we can build on last season's effort and have a real attempt to reach the Final this season. "It is important for the development of the game in Ireland that we have the players from the amateur side included and they will benefit from their involvement with us. They are making great strides in Ireland, including a first ever win over England this season, and these players can now take the step up to the next level." Ireland begin their campaign this Sunday 17th October against Wales in Aberavon (kick-off 2.30pm) before taking on Scotland in Navan on Friday 29th October. The squad in full is:

David Bates (Halifax), Phil Cantillon (Halifax), Mick Cassidy (Wigan Warriors), Carl De Chenu (Sheffield Eagles), Lee Doran (Oldham), Ian Dowling (Kilkenny Wildcats), Tommy Gallagher (Leeds Rhinos), Karl Fitzpatrick (Salford City Reds), Declan Foy (Kerry Kings), Stuart Littler (Salford City Reds), Simon Manuel (Kilkenny Wildcats), Richard Marshall (Leigh Centurions), Chris Maye (Swinton Lions), Matt McConnell (Barrow Raiders), Philip Purdue (Clontarf Bulls), Rob Smyth (Leigh Centurions), Paul Southern (Rochdale Hornets), Anthony Stewart (Salford City Reds), Pat Weisner (Halifax).