Last weekend saw a major development in camogie when two National League matches were played under an altered set of rules. Teams have been increased from 12 to 15 players and matches will now be played on full-sized GAA pitches with the same goalposts that are used for Gaelic football and hurling. The changes are for a one-year trial period.

In another rule change, hand-passed scores will be allowed, the caman may be dropped from the hand without penalty and the goalkeeper may be challenged within the small square.

It is expected that there will be some resistance to the increase in team numbers as some clubs may find it difficult to field 15 players at senior level, but there may also be a move to extend the trial period for another two or three years.

Two matches were played under the new rules at the weekend when Kilkenny beat Wexford and Cork, holders of the league and championship titles, beat Tipperary. The annual congress of the camogie association is scheduled for the Anner Hotel, Thurles, from March 25th to 27th.