Leinster may be the best side in Europe over the course of the season, but the notion that they are invincible ignores those human traits — thoroughbreds or not, says Ronan O’Gara.

The perseverance of some players is necessary to overcome damaging perceptions of them, writes Ronan O’Gara

Watching New Zealand and South Africa there was that very rare feeling - it lasted only a few minutes, like viewing the aurora borealis, where you are mouthing quietly to yourself: this is unbelievable, writes Ronan O’Gara.

Being back in Cork next week affords the pause and opportunity to pick the bones of a remarkable eight months here in Christchurch, writes Ronan O’Gara.

Dan Leavy has a face you don’t want to argue with. Every crease, crevice, and scar speaks of a personality which doesn’t take a backward step, neither physically or metaphorically. 

The Crusaders got a week off after the Chiefs game up in Hamilton. Some of the squad went off to Fiji for R&R. I’m using the time for a bit of a recharge before heading to Brisbane today ahead of the first test.

It’s rare now I get an instant buzz from something that’s not on a pitch in front of me, but such was the sensation, even in a different hemisphere, when Joey Carbery confirmed his career direction yesterday.

Three weeks ago, on these pages, I wondered aloud why Munster weren’t in the frame for Joey Carbery.

The one they left after them? Presumably the Racing 92 players and management recognise it was a Champions Cup final they should have won.