Aussies select co-captains

Two indigenous AFL players Andrew McLeod and Chris Johnson are to lead Australia against Ireland in the International Rules Series over the next two weeks.

With 2004 skipper James Hird not selected for this year's Series, the Australian squad will have Adelaide star McLeod, who was vice-captain in 2003, and Brisbane Lion Johnson as their co-captains.

Coach Kevin Sheedy could not split the duo after the identity of the Aussies' captain was put to a vote amongst the Aussie squad members.

Sheedy, whose squad take in two practice matches against local Gaelic footballers today and tomorrow, said: "The vote between the players was so close. The coaching staff felt that given we have never picked an indigenous player to lead the country before, why just pick the one.

"Given that you never know what will happen the following year (in terms of selection) they (McLeod and Johnson) might never get the chance again."

Having staged their first squad get-together in Perth at the weekend, the Aussies already have injury worries.

After yesterday's training session in Busselton, it was confirmed that Brad Deledio (shoulder), Troy Makepeace (thigh strain) and Heath Black (ankle) have picked up knocks, but all three are expected to play in Friday's first Test at the Subiaco Oval.