Brian O'Driscoll

Ireland's greatest rugby player — a centre of exceptional intelligence and finishing ability.

Brian Gerald O'Driscoll was born in Dublin in 1979 and played 133 Test matches for Ireland — a world record at the time of his retirement in 2014. He scored 47 Test tries — the all-time record for a centre. He captained Ireland from 2002 to 2008 and led the British and Irish Lions in 2005. He won four Six Nations Championship titles with Ireland (2009, 2014, 2014, 2015) including two Grand Slams (2009, 2018 as guest). He won four Heineken Cup titles with Leinster (2009, 2011, 2012, 2014). He was named IRB World Player of the Year in 2001. His ability to read the game, his footwork in tight spaces and his ability to finish tries in any circumstance made him the complete centre. He overcame a dislocated shoulder sustained in a Lions match in New Zealand in 2005 — the tour's defining controversy — to return to international rugby. He is the most decorated Irish rugby player in history.

O'Driscoll was renowned for his exceptional pace, vision and ability to create opportunities in tight spaces. His trademark step and offloading skills made him a constant threat in attack, while his defensive reads and tackling technique were exemplary. He possessed an innate understanding of the game that allowed him to exploit gaps and create tries for teammates.

O'Driscoll transformed the profile of Irish rugby and inspired a generation of players who followed in his footsteps. His leadership and performances elevated Ireland from also-rans to genuine contenders on the world stage.

• Six Nations 4x Grand Slams
• British Lions (captain 2005)

Club Career

Club	Period	Apps	Tries	Shirt
Leinster	1999–2014	186	85	#12
Ireland	—	133	46	—