Scotland Head Coach Fraser MacKenzie has selected his captain and vice-captain for the 2009 Senior Shinty / Hurling International against Ireland at Bught Park Inverness on Saturday 31 October 2009.

MacKenzie stressed what an important part commitment made in reaching his decision. “I am very big on commitment” he said. “I have always rewarded players who show the most commitment during my time as North manager with the captaincy. There are plenty leaders in the squad but I felt that Gary Innes had shown great commitment to the representative set up over the years and I am delighted he has agreed to be the captain this year.”

Innes, who was vice-captain in the 2008 win over the Irish, has impressed his manager with his leadership qualities. “Gary does have great leadership qualities” said MacKenzie. “He showed this in leading Fort William to a Camanachd Cup victory during his time as club captain.”

MacKenzie has looked for the same qualities in his vice-captain. “I have also selected a vice captain and again the main reason was commitment” he said. “Hector Whitelaw has had to deal with not getting selected for a number of years before getting his chance and he a great example of a committed player when it comes to international shinty.”