LUKE Hodge says AFL players would be "crazy" to pass up the chance to play International Rules if they get the chance.
The Virgin Australian International Rules Series has been given new life in the past two years with Australia fielding a far stronger side in two engrossing encounters against Ireland.
The Hawthorn and Australian skipper has loved every minute of the 2015 tour and encouraged all his AFL colleagues to aspire to represent their country in the hybrid game.
"You'd be crazy if you didn't take the opportunity," Hodge told AFL.com.au after the Test at Croke Park in Dublin.
He said both the pride of playing for Australia and playing alongside people who are normally opponents was brilliant.
Disappointed at the loss, Hodge said he wished he could play a second Test to redeem himself.
"We put in a good fight but came up a bit short but everyone in this locker room gave everything they could," Hodge said.
"We were serious ... we had a red-hot crack."
The Australians contemplate their loss to the Irish at Croke Park. Picture: Getty Images
Having played in two series in Australia Hodge said to finally get the chance to represent Australia at Croke Park was a thrill.
"To be able to walk out and hear the roar and play on the surface here, it was a great thing to finally do," Hodge said.
The atmosphere was electric before the game as a ceremony took place to commemorate the 95th anniversary of Bloody Sunday in front of 38,000 fans.
"It felt loud, especially when they got a few unders at the start," Hodge said.
"That was the excitement of the game. All the supporters realised how seriously both sides took it."
"Unfortunately the way the game went, they jumped us at the start."
Hodge said the experience would stick in his memory bank long after his career finished.
"To get the opportunity to play for your country and play for people like Nick Riewoldt, Bob Murphy, and Dustin Fletcher in his last game ... I will cherish that for the rest of my life," Hodge said.
"Even at 31 years of age, I am learning stuff from those guys."
