Stringer fit to face Wales after injury scare

Barry Coughlan

Ulster scrum half Kieran Campbell has been released to play with Ulster in the Celtic League against Munster tomorrow night.

Meanwhile, following Olympian Victor Costello’s decision to retire at the end of the season, tributes poured in from national coach Eddie O’Sullivan, Leinster coach Declan Kidney and others.

Yesterday the 34-year-old said the time was right: “I maybe could have held on for another year or so but I wanted to get out at the right time for everyone concerned. I’ve had some great memories with Leinster and Ireland and hope that continues in the next couple of months, both as a player for Leinster and a spectator for Ireland.

“I’ve lived out of a sports bag for as long as I can remember. In sporting terms, I’m now in the older bracket; in business there is the possibility of a new start.”

But Costello, who made his debut against the USA in 1996 and won 39 caps for his country, said he would retain a huge interest in the game.

Costello made his provincial debut for Connacht in 1993 and toured with Ireland to Australia in 1994. After a short spell with London Irish in 1996, he returned to Ireland with Leinster, who he has made 121 appearances for.

He also represented Ireland in the shot putt in the Barcelona Olympics in 1992.

Ireland coach O’Sullivan said: “Victor Costello has enjoyed an incredible sporting career.

He was one of the most talented athletes in world rugby and played a big part in the recent success of the national team, none more so than in the World Cup in 2003. I wish him every success in his future career plans.”

Leinster Director of Rugby Declan Kidney said: “Victor has been a great servant to Leinster and a cornerstone for the team over the last decade. Everyone knows when it’s time to retire and he will be very difficult to replace.

I wish him well for the future.”

Leinster Chief Executive Mick Dawson also paid tribute: “Victor Costello is one of the true legends of Irish sport. He can look back on a career that has transcended the amateur days right through to the professional era with great pride having served his country and his province with distinction.”