4&5. Brian O’Driscoll & Paul O’Connell (Ireland)
O’Driscoll, an Irish rugby legend, is revered for his exceptional skills as a center and inspirational leadership. Renowned for his agility and rugby intellect, he’s regarded as one of the greatest players in the history of the sport.
O’Connell, the esteemed Irish rugby lock, is celebrated for his physicality and astute game reading. A natural leader on and off the field, O’Connell’s influence in the scrum and lineout has left an enduring legacy in the world of rugby.
Carter said: “Two giants of the game that have worn the green jersey were Paul O’Connell and Brian O’Driscoll. Their work rate and how they conducted themselves on and off the pitch was exemplary.”
Brian O’Driscoll facts:
- He is devoted to Manchester United and his boyhood hero was Mark Hughes
- O’Driscoll’s father, Frank, played two games for Ireland and an uncle, Barry, won four caps
- His final appearance for Leinster, and for any team, was in the 2014 Pro12 Grand Final on 31 May in Leinster’s home ground, the RDS in Dublin, in which Leinster defeated the Glasgow Warriors 34-12
- His most oft-quoted line was delivered at a press conference at Croke Park before an England match in 2009: “Knowledge is knowing that a tomato is a fruit; wisdom is knowing not to put it in a fruit salad.”
- O’Driscoll was chosen as Player of the Tournament in the 2006, 2007 and 2009 RBS Six Nations Championships.