It’s time for the GAA to adopt squad numbers

Proposal 15 in the Hurling 2020 committee report released almost three years ago called for the introduction of squad numbers prior to the start of the All-Ireland championship.

The rationale behind the idea included addressing the practice of dummy teams as well as improving the identification of hurlers. “Since the introduction of the rule ensuring all players are required to wear helmets, it is becoming more difficult to recognise players,” explained the Liam Sheedy-led group.

“As a committee, we would propose the introduction of squad numbers beginning with the 2015 Liam MacCarthy Cup competition. At the beginning of the Championship, each player would be allocated a number. The player would then keep that number for the remainder of the Championship, helping supporters to associate the number with the player as the more successful team’s progress.