Paul O’Connell was destined to be a Munster lifer after all

SO everyone's go-to man has called it a day. For a rugby player who gave so much for so long, he deserved to bow out in a gladiatorial manner, writes Donal Lenihan. 

Not everyone gets the departure of their choosing — sport is like that — but yesterday’s sudden confirmation that one of Ireland’s greatest leaders has been shunted into the sidings by injury is a disappointing conclusion to a glorious career.

O’Connell developed into the greatest forward to ever wear the green jersey of Ireland, an achievement down to a selfless attitude and a manic commitment to hard work. He is one of the few forwards I have seen who somehow managed to continue developing his game into his mid-30s.