THE PROPOSED international rules series in Australia later this autumn appears to be back on track. Although the AFL didn't meet the deadline of yesterday, set by the GAA last week for the agreement of a second venue, the Australians have requested time to finalise details for the second Test.

A statement from Croke Park said the GAA had been willing to allow their AFL counterparts some additional time and hoped to be in a position to confirm the dates and venues for the proposed series by Thursday of next week.

Difficulties arose, according to the AFL, because of the coincidence of the rugby league World Cup and an international cricket tournament being held at the same time as the proposed series next November.

Meanwhile, the GAA have ruled out the prospect of a world boxing title fight attracting over 100,000 to Croke Park. It had been suggested by Manchester fighter Ricky Hatton that the Jones' Road venue could accommodate a six-figure crowd for his proposed rematch with Floyd Mayweather.

"Croke Park's capacity is set at 82,300," said a spokesperson. "The actual capacity would be greater than that, but public safety regulations restrict the size of the crowd on the basis of how quickly we can clear the stadium. A full house can evacuate in an emergency in about eight minutes. Because of the size of the surrounding streets we are not permitted to exceed that figure."

Tyrone attacker Owen Mulligan has been cleared to play in next month's Ulster SFC opener against Down. He was sent off in a club game last weekend, but his suspension will not affect his inter-county involvement. However, he is still doubtful for the Healy Park game due to a hamstring problem.