Captaincy never an issue for Paulie

After an injury plagued year, Paul O’Connell is quite happy to play the part of a foot soldier in the Lions tour to Australia.

In December, his goal was just to get game time with Munster as he faced the daunting prospect of a second operation on his back. Now, he’s just happy to be on Warren Gatland’s list.

Six weeks ago he got the chance to press his claims as he returned for Munster’s build-up to the Heineken Cup quarter final clash against Harlequins. He grabbed the opportunity with both hands, giving a barnstorming performance at The Stoop and following up with another heroic display in the semi-final loss to Clermont Auvergne