O'Driscoll glad to put injuries behind him
Brian O’Driscoll feels more comfortable on the pitch having tackled the recurring hamstring injuries that have hampered his career.
Ireland’s skipper will win his 100th cap in Saturday’s RBS 6 Nations clash with Wales at Croke Park thankful the problem appears a distant memory.
A specialised stretching routine and focus on other muscle groups in the leg appear to have to rectified the problem, though the 31-year-old is wary of tempting fate.
“At times it was difficult not knowing where it went wrong with the hamstring injuries,” he said.
“Generally I think I’ve been fortunate with injury so far. The dislocated shoulder after the 2005 Lions tour was the serious one.
“But the hamstrings also suffered for a couple of years and while that has been addressed, it’s still a work in progress.
“It makes it easier knowing my hamstrings don’t feel tight when I play. I don’t have that at the back of my head at the moment.”
O’Driscoll will be the second Ireland player in two weeks to join the ranks of rugby’s centurions after prop John Hayes reached the milestone against England.
It will be a special moment for O’Driscoll, the enduringly brilliant Lions centre who made his debut 11 years ago and has since captained Ireland 62 times.
“I don’t think the occasion will affect me. I’ll enjoy it and look forward to it. It’ll just be another Test match,” said O’Driscoll.
“It will be a proud moment for me and my family when I lead the team out but otherwise it will be business as usual.
“There will be a little bit of emotion, but I’ve never been one for letting that get out of control.”
O’Driscoll believes his decision to reject offers to join English and French clubs in favour of staying with Leinster helps explain his longevity.
“Staying in Ireland was a huge decision. All players in Ireland are looked after very well by the Irish Rugby Football Union,” he said.
“We’re not forced to play with injuries. There’s a limit to the amount of games we play, so in that respect we’ve been very lucky.
“The union have got it right in trying to prolong careers and helping guys play at the top level and peak at certain times.
“Being able to stay in Ireland close to family and friends and play for the province that I love has made a huge difference.”
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