O’Connell looking forward to new role

Paul O’Connell admitted yesterday that Ireland have struggled in the absence of Brian O’Driscoll in years past but believes the current vintage possess the maturity and confidence to cope without their talisman.

The Leinster centre has missed just five games in this storied competition since making his bow against England in Twickenham back in 2000 so this Ireland generation is breaking new ground in the weeks to come.

“There’s plenty of leadership in the team,” said O’Connell who takes over as captain. “Certainly in years past when Brian was out there was a bit of a struggle in that we did lose that experience and that knowledge on the pitch and around the dressing-room.