The GAA’s Hurling Expert Advisory Group, chaired by former Cork manager John Meyler, is finalizing plans to conduct “sandbox” trials of potential rule changes within third-level hurling leagues later this year. These trials are intended to provide empirical data on how proposed adjustments might influence the flow and technical execution of the sport.
This initiative follows a comprehensive data-gathering phase that began in June, during which the committee circulated surveys to gauge stakeholder sentiment regarding current playing rules. An interim report detailing these findings is scheduled for publication early next month. The group is working in tandem with the Games Intelligence Unit (GIU) to ensure that any recommendations for change are supported by objective game analysis, including metrics on handpassing, rucks, and puck-out efficiency.
While the GAA acknowledges that hurling does not require the extensive structural intervention recently implemented in Gaelic football, officials are adopting a similar evidence-based methodology to assess the sport’s health. Previous trials, such as those conducted in 2023 for Freshers 1 competitions, focused on specific mechanics like handpassing requirements and puck-out distance mandates. The current group includes notable figures such as National Head of Hurling Willie Maher, former Kilkenny star Richie Hogan, and analyst Ursula Jacob, who are tasked with determining if modernizing specific regulations is necessary to preserve the game’s integrity.