Paul O’Connell? The guy is different gravy

Paul O’Connell is not short of options in his retirement, writes Ronan O’Gara

Fri, 12 Feb, 2016 - 00:00

An Irish rugby legend and record‑setting out‑half turned elite coach with La Rochelle. A prominent pundit known for frank, compelling, agenda-setting analysis.

First things first. It’s neither “sad” nor “devastating” that Paul O’Connell has retired at 36. He’s had a remarkable rugby career on the pitch, and the second half is only getting started.

If there’s anything, it’s surprise that he finally met an opponent he couldn’t get the better off. That’s a first. Their respective careers are alike in no other way than playing together at Munster, but recognising the difference between his own and Felix Jones’ premature retirement said as much as anyone needs to know about Paulie.