WATCH AND WEEP: Paul O’Connell’s career in pictures

It's time to celebrate the end of an era.

For 14 years Paul O'Connell battled in the green of the Ireland but this morning's announcement confirmation brings down the curtain on one of the greatest Test careers in history. Here we take a look at the monumental second-row's international, provincial and Lions career in pictures. [caption id="attachment_44020" align="aligncenter" width="474"] In the early, scrum-capped days, at Munster.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_44019" align="aligncenter" width="650"] Celebrating the try on his Test debut, a score he does not remember.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_44022" align="aligncenter" width="474"] Looking slimline during a 2003 World Cup kickabout.[/caption]

With Alan Quinlan and Malcolm O'Kelly in 2003.

[caption id="attachment_44037" align="aligncenter" width="522"] Contesting a lineout in 2003 quarter-final.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_44038" align="aligncenter" width="700"] Ahead of the first of three Lions Tours, in 2005.[/caption]

Celebrating 2006 Heineken Cup victory over Biarritz.

[caption id="attachment_44024" align="aligncenter" width="474"] Enjoying a rare hit out for his beloved Young Munsters[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_44026" align="aligncenter" width="474"] His portrait in 2009 Grand Slam picture book.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_44025" align="aligncenter" width="474"] Lifting the Six Nations trophy in Cardiff in 2009.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_44040" align="aligncenter" width="700"] Pulling down kitman Rala O'Reilly's trousers during the Grand Slam celebrations.[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_44027" align="aligncenter" width="474"] In the historic 2011 World Cup win over Australia.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_44035" align="aligncenter" width="459"] Relaxing in Dunedin during the 2011 World Cup.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_44032" align="aligncenter" width="474"] Querying a scrum decision during the 2011 quarter-final defeat to Wales.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_44029" align="aligncenter" width="474"] Crestfallen after All Blacks steal victory at the death in 2013.[/caption]

Celebrating the 2014 Six Nations triumph on Brian O'Driscoll's last appearance.

[caption id="attachment_44031" align="aligncenter" width="474"] Lifting the Six Nations trophy in Murrayfield this year.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_44014" align="aligncenter" width="634"] Receiving oxygen on the pitch after suffering the injury that ended his Ireland career.[/caption]