Gaelic hurling combines the precision of hockey with the physical clashes seen in rugby matches. During a game there is bound to be a great level of spectacle. The exciting nature of hurling has helped it to endure for many centuries.
The GAA is responsible for helping the sport to see a surge in popularity. This organization promoted the game to the point where there are now half a million members worldwide. When international broadcasters began to show hurling matches on television this helped to bring it further into the mainstream. As a result more bookie websites began to open up hurling markets.
The Irish sport of Gaelic hurling is estimated to be thousands of years old. It has a number of links with Gaelic football. This includes the field and goal structure, player numbers and a lot of the terminology. The players each have a wooden stick which is referred to as a hurley. They use these objects to hit balls called sliotars through their opponent's goalposts in order to score points. If the sliotar is caught in the player's hand they are only allowed to move four steps before passing it. The ball can also be slapped or kicked. However, most people use their hurley to move it around the pitch.
Physical contact between players is allowed, but there are strict rules in place. They must have at least one of their feet planted in the ground. If an opponent has ball possession then the player may perform a shoulder to shoulder charge on them. It is mandatory for everyone to wear a helmet and faceguard. However, it is rare for any form of protective body padding to worn. Because of this injuries are fairly common in Gaelic hurling.
There are eight officials present on the field responsible for starting and stopping play. During inter-county games video technology may be utilized. Most of the high profile official events in this sport are set up by the Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA). This organization has established a clear set of rules for hurling, including foul and score scenarios. Punters should read up on these to help with their wagering.