In the spirit of St. Patrick's Day, it's time to celebrate all that is Irish. And in tribute to the Emerald Isle, we've compiled a list of the 5 greatest players ever to have pulled on the green in the professional era.
Feel free to give us your take on the rankings or point out any glaring omissions in the forum below.
5. Gordan D'Arcy
He had several re-inventions, from wonderboy speedster out wide, to explosive outside centre, to gritty and innovative No12 and he established himself as one of the world’s most effective midfield men in an Ireland jersey over a massive 16-year career and played a big role in the 2009 Grand Slam success.
4. Keith Wood
Nicknamed the ‘Raging Potato’ or ‘Uncle Fester’ 58-times capped Wood helped revolutionise the hooker’s berth for his all-action style and ability to be in the right place at the right time to give Ireland a cutting edge in attack. Scored 15 tries and enjoyed a dynamic 1997 tour of South Africa with the Lions. Excelled again in Australia four years later.
3. Johnny Sexton
The main man behind Ireland's international success in recent seasons and Leinster's stranglehold on the European Champions Cup and Guinness PRO14 double in 2018.
2. Paul O'Connell
Munster fans will tell you that Superman wears Paul O’Connell pyjamas! The Irish second row was certainly blessed with special rugby powers having been one of the world’s leading tight forwards for more than a decade. A three-times Lions who captained the tour of South Africa in 2009.
1. Brian O'Driscoll
One of the most feared players in the game, O’Driscoll was also one of the most consistent. His 141 Test caps, including eight for the Lions, place him second on the all-time list behind Richie McCaw.
Ireland’s record try scorer with 46 touchdowns, O’Driscoll also led his country more times than any other player and his brilliant defensive qualities and dazzling attacking skills made him a threat all over the field.
