Announced by Head Coach Michael O’Loughlin in Sydney today, Krakouer is one of 33 Indigenous players under consideration for final selection in the squad which will represent Australia in Ireland.
A final squad of 21 will be announced following the AFL Finals Series, with the opening clash of the biennial contest to take place on October 19 in Cavan.
Excited by the prospect of representing his nation and community at international level, Krakouer believes selection would represent one of the finest accomplishments of his career.
“It would mean a great amount. I haven’t done that before so, on behalf of the AFL and my country, to go over to Ireland would be an amazing achievement and a great honour. Fingers crossed I will receive a call up,” Krakouer said.
“I really enjoyed the Indigenous All Stars games I played earlier in my career, and to play footy with boys who you normally play against, and are your mates as well, would be awesome.”
With the likes of Hawthorn duo Lance Franklin and Cyril Rioli, Sydney’s dual Brownlow Medallist Adam Goodes and Carlton high flyer Andrew Walker among the stars named to feature, Krakouer is confident the side ultimately selected will play the hybrid game in electrifying fashion.
I’m sure it will be a nice and quick game. Most of the boys are pretty skilled with an oval shaped footy,” he said.
“They handle that pretty well, so I’m sure with the round ball, there’s not going to be too much movement, or too many awkward bounces.
“They’ll be able to pick that up pretty well so it will be an exciting, quick brand of footy or hybrid game that should be played over there.”
AFL General Manager of Football Operations Mark Evans said this year’s International Rules Series is a significant and historic event in Australia’s Game.
“The series is a fantastic opportunity for the Indigenous All-Stars to come together as a team and to represent Australia for the first time in the International Rules series against Ireland.
“The Indigenous Australian Rules team will be made up of a very exciting and competitive list, which will showcase our Indigenous talent and I’m confident will do Australia proud.
“The final squad of 21 players which will travel to Ireland will be released following the Toyota AFL Grand Final Series.”
