He gave as good as he got. More times than not, he gave more than he got.
Brian O’Driscoll played England for the first time in 2000 and was on the losing side. He only won for of his first encounters against the old enemy before embarking on a winning streak that lasted from 2004 to 2013.
In between there were Triple Crowns, championship wins and a Grand Slam. For his province, Leinster, O’Driscoll did untold damage to English clubs.
Last night, the Rugby Players Association [England], paid O’Driscoll the highest compliment possible.
Ireland’s record try-scorer, and rugby’s most capped player, was inducted into the RPA Hall of Fame at their end of season awards. An RPA statement reads:
‘O’Driscoll is not only an Ireland legend, but one of the most iconic stars in the history of the sport. He is the second most capped international player of all time with 133 caps and he won three Champions Cup titles with Leinster, three RBS 6 Nations trophies including a Grand Slam in 2009 and won a British and Irish Lions series in 2013.
‘There are few players in world rugby who deserve a lifetime achievement more than O’Driscoll.’
Big honor last night. Many thanks to Hoppers & everyone involved in the #RPAAwards16 for my award. https://t.co/ynYYE5HgpU
— Brian O'Driscoll (@BrianODriscoll) May 12, 2016
The award is decided by the association following consultation with senior English players, including many O’Driscoll went toe-to-toe with over the years.
George Smith won RPA Player of the Year while Maro Itoje won Young Player of the Year and Billy Vunipola claimed England [Test] Player of the Year.
