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Celtic Cup winners crowned as coach makes ‘desperate plea’ against clubs blocking call-ups

Wales defeated Ireland on Saturday to win the Celtic Cup with that result coming shortly after Ireland’s head coach Ged Corcoran called out clubs for preventing players from representing the national team. The Celtic Cup was confirmed at relatively short…

By Sam Cook · Serious About Rugby League

Published: Monday, 2 November 2026 at 10:31 AM

Key Things to Know

Wales won the Celtic Cup after defeating Ireland 24-6 in a tournament decider.
Ireland coach Ged Corcoran made a plea urging clubs to stop blocking players from international call-ups.
Only one Super League player, George King, was selected for Ireland amid roster limitations.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Wales defeated Ireland 24-6 on Saturday to win the Celtic Cup, following a tournament that also featured Scotland. The decisive match between the two sides came after both had previously defeated Scotland in the short-notice international competition.

Following the match, Ireland head coach Ged Corcoran issued a plea for professional clubs to stop preventing players from participating in international rugby league. Corcoran, who was only able to call up Super League player George King, also pushed for a more consistent international calendar to secure television rights and commercial sponsorship.

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Celtic Cup winners crowned as coach makes ‘desperate plea’ against clubs blocking call-ups

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