Hastings backs O’Driscoll to lead Lions ahead of O’Connell

FORMER Lions captain Gavin Hastings has tipped Ireland skipper Brian O’Driscoll to pip Paul O’Connell when head coach Ian McGeechan decides who should lead the team to South Africa.

O’Driscoll and O’Connell have been celebrating Ireland’s Grand Slam triumph following Saturday’s victory over Wales in Cardiff.

McGeechan will name his Lions squad next month, with the 10-week trip to South Africa beginning in May. Regarding the captaincy, Hastings told BBC Radio Five Live: “Undoubtedly it’s going to be between Brian O’Driscoll and Paul O’Connell. With Brian having lifted Ireland’s first Grand Slam in 61 years he’s probably going to be favourite though. Paul O’Connell is a wonderful leader of the team as well.