Click here to see all of the news and views of this year's International Rules Series
THE SECOND and final Test of the 2008 Toyota International Rules Series is likely to be played in drizzly conditions, with rain falling on Melbourne late on Friday afternoon.
It was a similar situation in Perth for the First Test, which Ireland won by one point – holding off a fast-finishing Australia in front of a crowd of 35,153.
Click here for the full wrap of the First Test
Australia needs to win by at least one point to retain the Cormac McAnallen Trophy and captain Brent Harvey believes his side is better for the extra week together since the Perth clash.
Click here to read Harvey's column previewing the Test
The week also brought confirmation in voice that the series will continue in Ireland next year, with AFL chief executive Andrew Demetriou and GAA president Nickey Brennan announcing negotiations are underway.
A spiteful 2006 encounter saw the series shelved for a year, but support for its return from Australian and Irish players was significant – and that spirit was obvious when they renewed acquaintances last week.
Irish coach Sean Boylan says the long-term future of the series is in the players' hands.
"Players want to play for their country. This game played well is a great game and for us we’re playing against one of the greatest sporting nations in the world with one of the greatest facilities in the world," he said. Read more
Early in the week, Australia was forced to make a change to its squad with an ill Max Rooke replaced by Geelong teammate Josh Hunt.
The burly defender will take his place in Friday night's side as replacement for Adelaide's Scott Thompson, who has withdrawn with a calf injury.
North Melbourne's Michael Firrito will assume the role of goalkeeper, with Nathan Bock to be released into a defensive role.
Click here to view the Australian team
The game starts at 7.45pm AEST.
The views in this article are those of the author and not necessarily those of the clubs or the AFL.
