Duncan Casey: Paulie showed true value of leadership — others can follow

The sight of Paul O’Connell lying on the turf last Sunday week was uncomfortable for us all. There was a sense of foreboding as the scale of the damage became clear., writes Duncan Casey.

This wasn’t just an injury. A seemingly indestructible man who had driven confidence into the hearts of Irish players and supporters for 13 years had fallen for the last time in a green shirt.

Few would argue with the idea that Paul is one of the greatest leaders Irish rugby has seen. Unlike Brian O’Driscoll 18 months ago, he didn’t get the perfect end to a perfect career. The rugby gods had other ideas. Professional sport is a cruel. The sight of Paul leaving the field on a stretcher was a perfect example.