The Camanachd Association and Mowi are delighted to announce the return of the Mowi Shinty Hurling International to Scotland for the first time since 2018.
This year marks the first fully unified delivery of the International, with the Camanachd Association, Women’s Camanachd Association, Camogie Association and Gaelic Athletic Association working together to bring two Scotland–Ireland matches to Bught Park, Inverness, on Saturday October 25.
For the first time, the men’s and women’s fixtures will share equal billing on the same stage, reflecting the deepening partnership across the sports.
The launch took place in Edinburgh, where the four presidents attended a photocall at Holyrood with the first minister of Scotland, marking the symbolic strengthening of the ties between Scotland and Ireland through sport.
First minister, John Swinney, said: “The return of the Mowi Shinty-Hurling International to Scotland is a proud moment.
“Shinty is a game which is played and enjoyed in communities across our country, renowned for its history and deep cultural traditions.
“As a long-time supporter of women’s sports, I’m really pleased to see the women’s final given it’s due prominence alongside the men’s final at the international match in October and I look forward to backing the Scotland team.”
Proceedings continued at the Irish consulate in Edinburgh, where the Irish and Scottish presidents, along with coaches and players, were hosted by consul general, Jerry O’Donovan, and minister for sport, Maree Todd.
The reception highlighted the cultural bonds and mutual respect between the two nations.
Karen Williamson, president of the Women’s Camanachd Association, said: “We are delighted to see Mowi International return to Scotland.
“It gives our players the recognition they deserve and shines a light on the growing strength of women’s shinty.
“We are proud to play our part in building this partnership with our Irish friends.”
Burton Morrison, President of the Camanachd Association, added: “The return of the Mowi Shinty-Hurling International is a special moment for everyone who loves our sport.
“By uniting the men’s and women’s fixtures, we are creating an occasion that reflects modern values of equality while staying true to our traditions.
“I am sure that both nations will showcase the pride they take in their native games, and I am delighted for the Scottish fans who will be able to take in this spectacle live.”
The Scottish and Irish women will open proceedings on the 25th, with Scotland women’s manager Ross Brown eager for a strong start.
He said: “We have a lot of experience in the coaching team so they will help us adapt to the game, we know it will be a lot faster, but we are all looking forward to a great occasion.
“We know that there will be more of an ariel threat than we are necessarily used to but we will have a good squad full of experience.”
The men’s match will follow at 2pm.
Scotland’s new boss Alan MacRae said: “The Shinty Hurling International is unlike any other fixture.
“Selection will be fiercely competitive this year, which is a credit to the standard of play across our clubs.
“We know Ireland will be a formidable opponent, but we’re determined to rise to the challenge and showcase the very best of Scottish shinty.”
Irish Co-Manager Terence McNaughton added: “I thought last year’s game was a fantastic spectacle, everyone who was at the game thought it was incredible.
“We are hoping to be able to secure a third victory in a row, once we get the final squad selected it will be about moving the ball as fast as possible, the skilful player will always be able to adapt to the cross-code game.”
